Source: Wikimedia Commons
Dioscorea Elephantipes
IntermediateDioscorea elephantipes
Known as Tortoise Plant, with turtle shell-like caudex producing winter vines.
About
Dioscorea elephantipes, the Tortoise Plant or Elephant's Foot, is native to the Karoo region of South Africa. Its defining characteristic is the exposed caudex covered in geometric, polygonal ridges resembling tortoise shell segments, wrapped in corky bark. This is a winter-growing species: slender twining stems bearing heart-shaped leaves emerge in autumn, grow through winter, then die back completely in summer dormancy. Growth is very slow—a large, mature caudex represents decades of development. During the growing season (autumn through spring), bright indirect to direct light and moderate watering are appropriate. In summer, the plant should be kept completely dry or nearly so. The geometrically beautiful caudex has made it one of the most beloved caudex plants worldwide, known in Japan simply as kikkouryuu (tortoise dragon).
Lifespan of the Dioscorea Elephantipes
The Dioscorea Elephantipes lives 50+ years.
Size of the Dioscorea Elephantipes
The Dioscorea Elephantipes grows to Caudex 10-30cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Dioscorea Elephantipes
Minimum temperature is around 5–10°C; frost must be avoided.
Basic Info
Origin
Karoo region, South Africa
Lifespan
50+ years
Size
Caudex 10-30cm
Temperature
5〜35℃
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
From autumn to spring, the growing season, keep it in bright indirect to direct light. Leave the caudex exposed and give the vines plenty of light.
Watering
From autumn to spring, water moderately once the soil dries. In summer dormancy, withhold water or give only a trickle to keep it on the dry side.
Temperature & Overwintering
It tolerates roughly 5-10°C but must be kept from frost. Winter is its growing season, so keep it growing in a bright spot that does not get too cold.
Soil & Repotting
Use a well-draining mix and plant with the corky caudex above the soil. Growth is very slow, so repotting every few years is enough.
Dormancy Care
A winter grower: in summer the stems and leaves die back and it rests completely. Remove the dead vines, stop watering, and resume when new growth appears in autumn.
Pruning & Shaping
It sends out long thin vines, so train them on a stake or ring. Guide the vines upward so they do not hide the tortoise-shell caudex.
Dioscorea Elephantipes FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Dioscorea Elephantipes?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the lifespan of Dioscorea Elephantipes?
The average lifespan of Dioscorea Elephantipes is 50+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Dioscorea Elephantipes get?
The mature size of Dioscorea Elephantipes is Caudex 10-30cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Dioscorea Elephantipes?
The price of Dioscorea Elephantipes varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 9–11
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Dioscorea elephantipes (L'Hér.) Engl.
Synonyms: Dioscorea testudinaria R.Knuth, Rhizemys elephantipes (L'Hér.) Raf., Rhizemys montana (Burch.) Raf., Dioscorea montana (Burch.) Spreng., Dioscorea elephantopus Spreng., Testudinaria montana Burch., Testudinaria elephantipes (L'Hér.) Burch., Testudinaria elephantipes f. montana (Burch.) G.D.Rowley, Tamus elephantipes L'Hér.
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in either CITES Appendix I or II. Also not subject to Japan's designated invasive species or specified animals regulations (being a plant).
Sources: CITES Appendix I species list / CITES Appendix II species list / Ministry of the Environment List of Specified Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Elephant's Foot Care During Dormancy | Summer Watering, Breaking Dormancy, and Managing Non-Dormant Plants
How to manage Dioscorea elephantipes (Elephant's Foot) through summer dormancy without failure. This guide covers the signs of dormancy, when to stop watering, placement to prevent fungal issues, how to break dormancy in autumn, and how to handle non-dormant plants, complete with a month-by-month annual care checklist.
How to Grow Uncarina | Differences Between the Madagascar Endemic Species Grandidieri and Roeoesliana
An explanation of the appeal and cultivation methods of the Madagascar endemic caudex plant Uncarina genus. We introduce the differences between Uncarina grandidieri and roeoesliana, seedling cultivation, and repotting timing.
Complete Guide to Choosing Caudex Plants as Gifts | Recommended Varieties by Occasion and How to Include Care Notes
A guide to choosing caudex plants as gifts organized by occasion. We introduce how to select varieties based on the recipient's cultivation experience and how to include care notes for long-term enjoyment.
Diagnosing and Treating Poor Root Development in Caudex Plants | Causes and Solutions for Roots That Won't Emerge or Won't Grow
A detailed guide to root emergence problems in caudex plants. From diagnosis methods to solutions, practical techniques for promoting healthy root development are introduced.
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