Contents
Description
Trichosanthes Cucumerina Subsp. Anguina, also known as snake gourd, is a climbing plant that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, and is widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions for its edible fruit. The fruit of the plant is long and cylindrical, resembling a snake, hence the name snake gourd.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus | Trichosanthes |
Appearance
The snake gourd plant is a climbing vine that can grow up to 5 meters tall. It has large, heart-shaped leaves that are green in color and covered with fine hairs. The flowers are white and have a pleasant fragrance. The fruit of the plant is long and cylindrical, with a length of up to 150 cm. It is usually green in color but can also be white or yellow. The flesh of the fruit is white and spongy, with small seeds in the center.
Care Guide
Snake gourd plants require regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. They prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilization should be done every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. The plant requires full sun exposure and can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The snake gourd plant is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and bacterial wilt. Regular monitoring and prompt treatment with insecticides and fungicides can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
The snake gourd plant is native to Southeast Asia and is widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It prefers warm, humid climates and can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields, gardens, and forests.
Question and Answer
Q: Can snake gourd be eaten raw?
A: While snake gourd can be eaten raw, it is usually cooked before consumption.
Q: What is the nutritional value of snake gourd?
A: Snake gourd is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.
Q: How long does it take for snake gourd to mature?
A: Snake gourd typically takes 70-80 days to mature from seed.
Q: Can snake gourd be grown in containers?
A: Yes, snake gourd can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s size and growth habit.
Related Plants
- Trichosanthes Dioica
- Trichosanthes Kirilowii
- Trichosanthes Lobata
- Trichosanthes Palmata
References
- USDA Plants Database: Trichosanthes cucumerina L. var. anguina (L.) Haines
- Encyclopedia of Life: Trichosanthes cucumerina L. var. anguina (L.) Haines
- Gardening Know How: Snake Gourd Care – How To Grow Snake Gourd Plants
