Dioscorea bryoniifolia BARBASCO (5 seeds)

Barbasco, also known as Camisilla or by its scientific name Dioscorea bryoniifolia, is a Chilean climbing plant found in South America. It is a perennial member of the Dioscoreaceae family. It is fast-growing and can reach up to 3 meters in height within just a few months.

This Dioscorea features dense foliage consisting of alternate, trilobed leaves. They are thick, dark green, and have a waxy, even shiny texture.

The flowers are small, grouped in inflorescences, and greenish in color with a delicate and discreet structure. Flowering occurs from late summer through autumn.

Its fruits are capsules or spherical berries; upon ripening, they turn brown and split open to release winged or flattened seeds, facilitating wind dispersal.

Camisilla seeds are brown and elongated.

- Uses:

This exotic vine has long been used by indigenous communities in South America for its medicinal and therapeutic properties. In traditional South American practices, the root is used for various ailments and is credited with anti-inflammatory virtues, particularly for relieving joint pain. Some communities also use it for its nootropic properties.

Due to its active compounds, Barbasco is often used as an adaptogen, helping the body adapt to stress and maintain balance. It is also employed as a tonic to boost energy and vitality.
Do not consume for psychoactive or medicinal effects; cultivate solely for the preservation of the botanical species.

Furthermore, thanks to its dense, shiny foliage, Camisilla is cultivated as an ornamental plant, adding an exotic touch to gardens.

- Germination and Sowing Seeds:

• The ideal period to sow Barbasco seeds begins in May.
• Sow the seeds in a pre-moistened peat pot.
• Cover them with only 2 to 3 millimeters of substrate.
• Gently tamp down the soil.
• Water manually using a spray bottle.
• Finally, place the pot in a location with a temperature of at least 25°C.
• Germination typically begins within 4 to 6 weeks.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

It thrives in a sandy substrate rich in humus and organic matter.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

This tuberous plant requires a lightly shaded exposure. Filtered, indirect light for several hours a day promotes optimal development.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

Native to warm regions, it prefers temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. It is frost-sensitive and must be protected or grown in non-hardy zones, as it does not tolerate sub-zero temperatures.

- Irrigation / Water Needs:

This Dioscorea requires moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry out between applications. Regular watering during active growth is beneficial.

- Multiplication / Propagation:

Propagation is mainly carried out by seeds, tuber division, or stem cuttings. Tuber division is the most common method, allowing for the rapid production of new plants.