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Description
Lagenaria Sphaerica, also known as the Round-fruited Gourd, is a plant species belonging to the family Cucurbitaceae. It is native to Africa, but it is now widely cultivated in various parts of the world, particularly in Asia and South America. This plant is an annual vine that produces large, round fruits that can range in size from a tennis ball to a basketball. The fruits are usually green or yellow when young, but they turn brown when mature. They have a hard, woody shell and are often used as ornamental objects or for making crafts. The leaves of Lagenaria Sphaerica are large and heart-shaped, and the plant produces small, pale yellow flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus | Lagenaria |
Appearance
Lagenaria Sphaerica is a climbing vine that can grow up to 10 feet long. Its leaves are large, heart-shaped, and have a rough texture. They can grow up to 8 inches long and 6 inches wide. The flowers of Lagenaria Sphaerica are small, pale yellow, and have five petals. They are usually less than an inch in diameter. The fruits of this plant are large and round, with a hard, woody shell that can range in color from green to yellow to brown. The fruits can grow up to 10 inches in diameter and can weigh up to 10 pounds.
Care Guide
To grow Lagenaria Sphaerica successfully, you need to provide it with the right care. Here are some tips:
Water
Lagenaria Sphaerica needs regular watering to grow well. It is best to water the plant deeply once a week rather than giving it frequent shallow waterings. You should also make sure that the soil drains well to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
Lagenaria Sphaerica needs regular fertilization to grow well. Use a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Soil
Lagenaria Sphaerica grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Sunlight
Lagenaria Sphaerica needs full sun to grow well. Make sure that the plant gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Hardiness Zones
Lagenaria Sphaerica is a warm-weather plant and grows well in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lagenaria Sphaerica is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including:
Pests
– Aphids- Whiteflies- Spider mites- Squash bugs- Cucumber beetles
Diseases
– Powdery mildew- Downy mildew- Fusarium wilt- AnthracnoseTo prevent pest and disease problems, make sure to provide your plant with the right care and keep an eye out for any signs of damage or disease.
Habitat
Lagenaria Sphaerica is native to Africa but is now widely cultivated in various parts of the world, particularly in Asia and South America. It grows well in warm, sunny locations with well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lagenaria Sphaerica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lagenaria Sphaerica can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: When should I harvest Lagenaria Sphaerica?
A: You should harvest Lagenaria Sphaerica when the fruit is fully mature and the skin has hardened. This typically occurs in late summer or early fall.
Q: Can Lagenaria Sphaerica be eaten?
A: While Lagenaria Sphaerica is edible, it is not commonly eaten due to its woody texture and lack of flavor.
Q: How long does it take for Lagenaria Sphaerica to mature?
A: Lagenaria Sphaerica typically takes 100-120 days to mature.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Lagenaria Sphaerica:- Lagenaria vulgaris (Bottle Gourd)- Cucurbita pepo (Zucchini)- Cucurbita maxima (Pumpkin)- Cucumis melo (Melon)
References
– “Lagenaria sphaerica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c903.- “Lagenaria sphaerica (Sond.) Cogn.” The Plant List. Accessed August 26, 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2278543.
