Description
Description
Originating in Africa, this relative of the humble cucumber frequently features in science fiction television as the fruit of an alien tree! Horned cucumbers grow on a hardy an extremely vigorous annual vine that will climb anything it touches. Dozens of spiky fruits are produced, which are filled with seeds and pulp that has a similar texture to passionfruit and a taste that has been described as a mix between cucumber, banana and lemon. Fruits can be eaten when green however the consensus is that they are generally better when fully ripe,with the rind turning a bright orange while the flesh remains a vibrant lime green.
Care
Tolerates shade but really thrives in full sun. The root ball can be sunk 5 – 10 cm below the soil surface to support the stem and keep the roots in a zone with consistent moisture. Prone to transplant shock like other cucurbits and will require regular watering until established, but once established should only need watering during very hot spells of weather. Will climb a trellis or anything else it can grab hold of, but is also quite content to sprawl across a large area.
