Distimake tuberosus aka Spanish Arborvine

Distimake tuberosus is a perennial vine in the morning glory family, Convolvulaceae. The supplied garden sources call it Merremia tuberosa. Its common names include wood rose, Brazilian jalap, and yellow morning glory. Other names include Spanish woodbine and seven year vine. Its native range runs from southern Mexico to Guyana and Ecuador, including the Caribbean. It grows in tropical regions with a dry season. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

The plant grows from a large tuber below ground. Its strong stems twine as they climb through nearby plants. They reach about 10–16 feet [3–5 metres] long. The tropical plant database also lists a height of 13 feet [4 metres]. The stems turn woody, most of all near their base. This gives the plant a lasting framework rather than soft stems alone. Where it escapes gardens, it can climb into tall trees. Its growth can cover and smother the forest canopy.

Gardeners grow this vine for its flowers and dried fruit. Its woody fruits also serve as material for flower arrangements in Europe. The supplied sources give no flowering season or detailed flower description. They also give no details of leaf shape or bark. The plant grows both in cultivation and in the wild. People collect wild plants for medicine. Growers in India and Malesia also raise it for medicinal use.

A sunny site and soil that drains well suit this climber best. The evidence gives no frost limit or hardiness zone. In Australia, it has spread beyond gardens into the wild. There it grows along lowland rainforest edges. Records place it up to 984 feet [300 metres] above sea level. Its ability to smother other plants raises concerns beyond the garden. Seeds can stay alive in the soil for many years. That lasting seed supply adds to its weed potential.

The tropical plant database records no known food uses. It reports use of the tuber as a strong purgative. It also reports that the plant can cause hallucinations. These reports do not establish a safe way to use it. Although that source lists no known hazards, this does not prove safety. The supplied evidence gives no specific pest or disease information.