Contents
Description
Momordica Charantia Var. Abbreviata is a plant that is known for its medicinal properties. It belongs to the family of Cucurbitaceae and is commonly known as Bitter Gourd. This plant is a tropical vine that is native to Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. The plant bears oblong-shaped fruit that is green in color and has a warty texture.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus | Momordica |
Appearance
Momordica Charantia Var. Abbreviata has a climbing habit and can grow up to 5 meters in length. The leaves are 4-12 cm long and wide, with 3-7 deeply separated lobes. The flowers are yellow, and the fruit is oblong-shaped, green, and warty. The fruit is approximately 10-20 cm in length and 5-10 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
Momordica Charantia Var. Abbreviata requires regular watering, and the soil should be moist but not waterlogged. It is essential to fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight. The hardiness zone for this plant is 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Momordica Charantia Var. Abbreviata is susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and fruit rot. Pests that commonly affect this plant include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. It is essential to monitor the plant regularly and treat any infestations promptly.
Habitat
Momordica Charantia Var. Abbreviata is native to Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. It is commonly grown in tropical and subtropical regions, including India, China, and Thailand. This plant prefers warm temperatures and high humidity levels.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Momordica Charantia Var. Abbreviata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors, provided it receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How long does it take for the fruit to ripen?
A: The fruit takes approximately 2-3 months to ripen.
Q: Can Momordica Charantia Var. Abbreviata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers, provided it receives adequate sunlight and care.
Q: Does Momordica Charantia Var. Abbreviata have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, this plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Related Plants
- Momordica Charantia
- Momordica Cochinchinensis
- Momordica Dioica
- Momordica Balsamina
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4027280/
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267225480_A_Review_on_Medicinal_Plants_with_Antidiabetic_Activity
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/momordica-charantia-bitter-melon
