The Genus Distimake
Family: Convolvulaceae
This genus was recently known as Merremia, and most people probably know this name better than the new placement.
Distimake represents about 43 species in the tropics and subtropics worldwide.
These plants are often used medicinally, most species having very interesting and useful chemistry.
These plants are mostly vines.
The etymology for this genus is too cryptic for a clear interpretation, but the name seems to refer to the biglobose stigma.
Photo of the fruit capsule of Distimake dissecta by Jerry Morrisey, iNaturalist
Distimake aureus
Yuca Vine
This is a large, fast-growing, deciduous vine that can climb 25’ or higher. Plant will freeze to the ground in winter and re-emerge from its tuberous roots in spring. All summer, and into the fall, it bears two-inch, brilliant yellow flowers. In fall large, fuzzy, black seeds are released from dried capsules.
Plant in full to part sun, moderate to low water when established. Hardy to at least 20°F. Plants may not go entirely dormant in winter warm microclimates. Good drainage is important.
Many pollinators are attracted to the flowers, especially noted are sulfur butterflies.
The tuberous roots are noted to be edible.
Endemic to the state of Baja California Sur in Mexico, this species is found from the vicinity of Loreto south to the Cape region of the Baja California peninsula. It is also found on several islands in the Gulf of California. This species is usually found twining and climbing over trees, shrubs, cacti, and rocks.
The species name, aureus, means golden, referring to the flowers. Formerly known as Merremia aurea. The common name, yuca, is probably in reference to the tuberous, edible roots which are like the commercial yuca root (Manihot esculenta) which is unrelated.
Distimake dissecta
Alamo Vine
Vigorous deciduous vine, reaching about 25’ high, with white flowers and a magenta or purple throat. Plants re-emerge in spring from tuberous roots.
Plant in full to part sun, provide moderate water and good drainage. Hardy to about 5°F. Plants readily reseed in the landscape.
Native from southern states in the United States, from Arizona to Florida, south into Mexico, Central America, and into South America in open and disturbed areas, stream banks.
Flowers are visited by many pollinators.
Extract from the leaves of this vine, which smells almost like almond essence, is used as a flavoring in cake and sweet breads and candy. The extract is sometimes added to water to make a cordial. The plant has a long and varied history of medicinal use, internally and externally.
The species name dissecta means “divided” probably referring to the leaves. Formerly known as Merremia dissecta.