Ube Purple Yam Starter Plants – Dioscorea alata | Filipino & Caribbean Heirloom

Grow Your Own Ube — The World's Most Beloved Purple Root

Ube Purple Yam (Dioscorea alata) is one of the most sought-after root vegetables in the world — prized for its stunning lavender-purple flesh, subtly sweet flavor, and deep cultural roots in Filipino, Caribbean, and African cuisine. Also known as Filipino Purple Yam, Jamaican Moonshine Yam, Indian Ratalu, and Water Yam, this naturally occurring tropical heirloom is as beautiful in the garden as it is delicious on the plate. Our starter plants are ready to go — just plant, train, and harvest.

Plant Highlights

• Species: Dioscorea alata
• Common names: Ube, Filipino Purple Yam, Jamaican Moonshine Yam, Indian Ratalu, Water Yam
• Color: Vibrant lavender-purple flesh
• Growth habit: Vigorous climbing vine with heart-shaped leaves
• USDA Zones: 6–10
• Support needed: 8–10 ft trellis, fence, or shed
• Great for: Desserts, ice cream, cakes, Filipino kakanin, Caribbean dishes, and stews
• Container friendly: Yes — use a large container with a sturdy trellis

How to Grow Ube Purple Yam

1. Install support: Set up a sturdy 8–10 ft trellis, fence, or shed edge before planting. A shorter trellis works if you prune regularly in summer.
2. Guide the vines: Lean vine tips against the base of the trellis to encourage upward growth. Side-dress with 2 inches of compost once vines reach the trellis.
3. Water deeply: Water once a week, moistening soil to 3 inches deep. During extended drought, increase to twice weekly to prevent tubers from drying out and splitting.
4. Prune for fullness: Trim vine tips that outgrow the trellis — cut just above a set of leaves to encourage side branching and a fuller appearance.
5. Remove bulbils: Pinch off the brown, half-moon-shaped bulbils that appear along vines in summer. Dispose of them in the trash — do not compost, as they will take root.
6. Harvest: Dig tubers in late summer once the vine stops growing. Reserve some for eating and replant others 2 feet apart, 2 inches deep, in compost-amended soil.

Container Growing

Plant a sprouted tuber slip in a large container positioned in front of a sturdy trellis or support. Space additional containers at 10-foot intervals for multiple harvests. Check soil moisture regularly and water at least once per week — containers dry out faster than in-ground beds.

Ube is more than an ingredient — it's a tradition. Grow your own and enjoy authentic purple yam flavor straight from your garden.