54 million tons of yams are farmed in sub-Saharan Africa. This place, called the “yam belt” produces 95 percent of the world's yams. There are more than 150 varieties of yams available world-wide.
Where are most yams grown?
In the U.S., over 50% of the country's sweetpotatoes are grown in North Carolina. Today, yams are grown around the world, but West Africa is still where most yam crops — nearly 95% — are grown.
Where do real yams come from?
They are native to Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Some yams are also invasive plants, often considered a "noxious weed" outside cultivated areas. Some 870 species of yams are known, and 95% of these crops are grown in Africa. Yam plants can grow up to 15 m (49 ft) in length and 7.6 to 15.2 cm (3 to 6 in) high.
Where are yams produced?
Yams are starchy staples in the form of large tubers produced by annual and perennial vines grown in Africa, the Americas, the Caribbean, South Pacific and Asia. There are hundreds of wild and domesticated Dioscorea species.
What country is the world leading producer of yams?
The Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), has ranked Nigeria as one of the world's largest producers of yam with about 60% of the global production of the product.
