Round yam, Karno
Platysace maxwellii
Family: Apiaceae
What it is like
A small shrub. It grows 0.5-1.2 m high and spreads 0.4-1.2 m wide. It has creeping rhizomes or underground stems. The stems are erect and slender. The leaves are 1.5-3 cm long by 0.1-0.2 cm wide. They are narrow and crowded and point upwards. They are green and rigid with a pointed tip. The flowers are 0.3 cm across. They are yellow. The occur in groups near the ends of branches. There are bracts about 2 cm long. The fruit is about 0.2 cm across.
Where it is found
It grows in sandy soils in SW of Western Australia. It needs good drainage and a warm location. It suits warm temperate and semi-arid locations. It can tolerate some frost and dry periods.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
Edible parts
Tubers, root
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings of firm young growth.