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Description
Cyclanthera Dissecta, commonly known as the “exploding cucumber,” is a plant species native to South and Central America. It is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family and is closely related to the cucumber and watermelon. The plant is an annual vine that can grow up to 6 feet tall, producing small, green, and spiky fruits that are edible when harvested young.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus | Cyclanthera |
Appearance
The Cyclanthera Dissecta plant has a climbing habit and produces large, green leaves that are deeply lobed and toothed. The plant produces small, green, spiky fruits that are about 2-3 inches long and have a round, oval shape. The fruits have a thin skin that is covered with soft spines, which can be easily removed by rubbing. When the fruits mature, they turn yellow and explode, scattering their seeds up to 20 feet away. The plant’s flowers are small and yellow, and they bloom in the summer.
Care Guide
Cyclanthera Dissecta is a relatively easy plant to grow and care for. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. However, make sure not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Cyclanthera Dissecta prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cyclanthera Dissecta is generally a pest-resistant plant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and cucumber beetles. Powdery mildew can be prevented by making sure the plant has good air circulation, and cucumber beetles can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Cyclanthera Dissecta is native to South and Central America and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant prefers warm, moist environments and can grow in a variety of soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cyclanthera Dissecta be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Cyclanthera Dissecta can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight and is planted in well-draining soil.
Q: Are the fruits of Cyclanthera Dissecta edible?
A: Yes, the fruits of Cyclanthera Dissecta are edible when harvested young. They are often used in South American cuisine.
Q: How often should Cyclanthera Dissecta be fertilized?
A: Cyclanthera Dissecta should be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How tall can Cyclanthera Dissecta grow?
A: Cyclanthera Dissecta can grow up to 6 feet tall.
Related Plants
– Cucumber (Cucumis sativus)- Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus)- Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo)- Zucchini (Cucurbita pepo)
References
– “Cyclanthera dissecta.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287661- “Cyclanthera dissecta.” Plants of the World Online. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:292899-2
