Bomarea acutifolia

Bomarea acutifolia, known as Yatzi, belongs to the Alstroemeriaceae family. Its native range runs from north-central Mexico into Central America. Records include Guatemala and Costa Rica. It grows in oak woods and tropical forests. These include forests that shed leaves and those that stay green. In Guatemala, it also grows in damp mountain forests and thickets. Kew places it within the seasonally dry tropical biome.

This perennial climber grows from a tuberous rootstock. It sends up one or more stout, twining stems each year. These can reach about 10 feet [3 metres] long. Each stem can measure about 0.016 feet [0.005 metres] across. Its climbing form suits use as a garden ornamental. The plant flowers from August to October. Each flower has both male and female organs. Bees pollinate the flowers.

For garden growth, sources recommend a warm place in sun. This contrasts with the shade found in its wild woodland homes. It needs soil that drains well but stays moist during growth. Sandy and loamy soils suit it. Slightly acid soil is preferred, though neutral soil is also listed. PFAF gives USDA zones 8–11 and suggests possible survival in mild British gardens. Yet it also reports a preferred minimum night temperature of 10°C. These points call for care when judging an exposed planting site.

Keep the roots almost dry through winter. A thick layer of organic mulch helps protect them. Remove this cover when new growth starts in spring. Slugs can badly damage the young shoots. Fresh seed can sprout within weeks in a warm greenhouse. Stored seed needs warm and cold treatment before sowing. Keep seedlings under glass for their first winter. Plant them outside in early summer. Spring division offers another way to raise plants. Handle the brittle roots with care. Each piece needs roots and a growth bud.

People sometimes gather the starchy tubers for food and cook them. PFAF lists no known medicinal use. Its entry also reports no known hazards. However, Useful Tropical Plants records skin rashes from fresh sap. People sensitive to tulip sap may react to this plant too. That specific warning matters more than the broad absence of reported hazards. Its garden value lies in its climbing growth and flowers.