yam

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Any of a group of climbing plants cultivated in tropical regions; the starchy tubers (underground stems) are eaten as a vegetable. The Mexican yam (D. composita) contains a chemical that is used in the contraceptive pill. (Genus Dioscorea, family Dioscoreaceae.)

The disc represents the full moon, traditionally the most auspicious time for work and celebration. The disc is set towards the hoist. Effective date: 1 January 1981. >>