Contents
Description
Melothria Pendula, also known as creeping cucumber or climbing melon, is a herbaceous vine that belongs to the family Cucurbitaceae. This plant is native to Central and South America and is widely cultivated for its edible fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus | Melothria |
Appearance
The leaves of Melothria Pendula are small, round, and green. The flowers are yellow and appear in clusters. The fruits are small and green, resembling miniature watermelons. As the fruits mature, they turn yellow and then red, and they are edible at any stage. The vines can grow up to 10 feet long and are good climbers, making them suitable for trellis or fence growing.
Care Guide
Watering Melothria Pendula regularly is crucial to its growth, as it prefers moist soil. It is recommended to fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. Melothria Pendula requires full sun exposure and thrives in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The most common pests that attack Melothria Pendula are spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be prevented by maintaining good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Melothria Pendula is native to Central and South America, where it grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure. It is an adaptable plant that can grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Melothria Pendula a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Melothria Pendula is a perennial plant in USDA hardiness zones 9-11 but can be grown as an annual in colder climates.
Q: Can Melothria Pendula be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Melothria Pendula can be grown in a container as long as the pot is large enough to accommodate its growth and the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter.
Q: How long does it take for Melothria Pendula to bear fruit?
A: Melothria Pendula typically bears fruit within 60-70 days after planting.
Q: Is Melothria Pendula a self-pollinating plant?
A: Yes, Melothria Pendula is a self-pollinating plant, but cross-pollination can result in better fruit production.
Related Plants
- Melothria Scabra
- Melothria Heterophylla
- Momordica Charantia
- Cucumis Sativus
References
- “Melothria Pendula.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 7 June 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b413>
- “Melothria Pendula.” Florida Native Plant Society. Accessed 7 June 2021. <https://fnps.org/plants/plant/melothria-pendula>
- “Growing Melothria (Climbing Cucumber).” Gardening Know How. Accessed 7 June 2021. <https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/melothria-climbing-cucumber/growing-melothria-plants.htm>
