Contents
Description
Momordica Cochinchinensis, also known as gac fruit or baby jackfruit, is a tropical vine native to Southeast Asia, particularly Vietnam and Thailand. It belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes cucumbers, melons, and pumpkins. The fruit of Momordica Cochinchinensis is considered a delicacy in Southeast Asia and is often used in traditional cuisine and medicine.The fruit of Momordica Cochinchinensis is round, spiky, and bright orange-red in color. It is covered in soft spines and can grow up to 5 inches in diameter. The flesh of the fruit is also bright orange and contains large seeds that are covered in a red, fleshy aril. The fruit has a mildly sweet and nutty flavor and is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cucurbitales |
| Family: | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus: | Momordica |
Appearance
Momordica Cochinchinensis is a climbing vine that can grow up to 10 meters in length. Its leaves are heart-shaped, dark green, and up to 10 centimeters long. The vine produces small, yellow flowers that are either male or female. The female flowers develop into the spiky, round fruit that is characteristic of the plant.
Care Guide
Water
Momordica Cochinchinensis requires regular watering to thrive. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization
Fertilize Momordica Cochinchinensis with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.
Soil
Momordica Cochinchinensis prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Use a mixture of potting soil and compost, and ensure that the soil pH is between 6.0 and 6.5.
Sunlight
Momordica Cochinchinensis requires full sun to grow and produce fruit. Place the plant in a sunny location, such as a south-facing window or a sunroom.
Hardiness Zones
Momordica Cochinchinensis is a tropical plant and requires warm temperatures to thrive. It is hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11, but can be grown as an annual in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Momordica Cochinchinensis is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Monitor the plant regularly for signs of infestation or disease, and treat promptly with insecticidal soap or fungicide.
Habitat
Momordica Cochinchinensis is native to Southeast Asia, particularly Vietnam and Thailand. It grows in tropical forests and is often found climbing on other trees or shrubs.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Momordica Cochinchinensis easy to grow?
A: Momordica Cochinchinensis can be challenging to grow, particularly in cooler climates. It requires warm temperatures, full sun, and regular watering and fertilization to thrive.
Q: Can I grow Momordica Cochinchinensis in a container?
A: Yes, Momordica Cochinchinensis can be grown in a container. Use a large pot with drainage holes and provide support for the climbing vine.
Q: How do I know when Momordica Cochinchinensis fruit is ripe?
A: The fruit of Momordica Cochinchinensis is ripe when it turns bright orange-red in color and is slightly soft to the touch. The flesh of the fruit should be a deep orange color, and the seeds should be covered in a red, fleshy aril.
Q: How is Momordica Cochinchinensis used in traditional medicine?
A: Momordica Cochinchinensis is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of health conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and inflammation. The fruit is also believed to have anti-aging properties.
Related Plants
- Momordica Charantia (bitter melon)
- Momordica Balsamina (balsam apple)
- Momordica Foetida (stink melon)
References
- “Momordica cochinchinensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 22, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287786.
- “Gac Fruit.” Purdue Horticulture. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/gac_fruit.html.
- “Momordica cochinchinensis.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed September 22, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:292141-1.
