Contents
Description
Sechium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Cucurbitaceae, native to Central and South America. It is commonly known as chayote, vegetable pear, mirliton, or chocho. The plant produces a green, pear-shaped fruit with a slightly curved stem, which is commonly used in cooking. It is a fast-growing vine that can reach up to 30 feet in length if left unchecked. The plant is easy to grow and is often cultivated as an ornamental plant or for its edible fruit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus | Sechium |
Appearance
Sechium is a fast-growing vine that can reach up to 30 feet in length if left unchecked. The leaves are large, dark green, and heart-shaped, with a rough texture on the upper surface. The plant produces small, white, unisexual flowers that are about 1 inch in diameter. The fruit is green, pear-shaped, and has a slightly curved stem, with a length of 8 to 10 centimeters. The fruit has a thin, smooth skin, and a white, crisp, juicy flesh that surrounds a single large seed.
Care Guide
Sechium is an easy plant to care for and is generally low maintenance. Here are some tips for taking care of your Sechium plant:
- Water: Sechium requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water the plant deeply and regularly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Sechium prefers well-drained, rich soil that is high in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Sechium requires full sun to grow and produce fruit.
- Hardiness Zones: Sechium is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sechium can be susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small insects can damage the leaves and stems of the plant.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off.
- Whiteflies: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems.
- Root Rot: This condition is caused by overwatering and can cause the roots to rot and the plant to die.
Habitat
Sechium is native to Central and South America and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. It grows well in warm, humid environments and prefers well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Sechium be grown indoors?
A: While Sechium prefers full sun and warm temperatures, it can be grown indoors if given enough light and warmth.
Q: How often should Sechium be fertilized?
A: Sechium should be fertilized every two to three weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Sechium be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Sechium can be grown in a container, as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How long does it take for Sechium to produce fruit?
A: Sechium typically produces fruit within 3 to 4 months of planting.
Related Plants
- Cucumis
- Cucurbita
- Pumpkin
- Squash
References
- “Sechium.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286596.
- “Chayote.” Purdue University Center for New Crops and Plants Products, www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/CropFactSheets/chayote.html.
- “Chayote Squash.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mv044.
