Cucumis anguria Linnaeus var. longaculeatus J.H. Kirkbride

West Indian Gherkin; Jamaican Cucumber

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West Indian Gherkin is an introduced annual member of the Cucumber family (Cucurbitaceae). It occurs in the southern third of Alabama. It occurs on roadsides, in crop fields, around chicken houses, and in waste areas. It is native to Africa, but has become naturalized around the world in warmer climates. West Indian Gherkin is an herbaceous vine climbing by tendrils. The vines may reach a length of nine feet or more. It has five lobed leaves similar to those of watermelon. The stems and leaves are hairy. Separate male and female flowers are produced on the same plant. The flowers are yellow and occur on pedicles from the leaf axils. The female flowers develop into green ellipsoid fruit covered in short spines. The fruit turns yellow as it matures. The flesh is similar to that of the common garden cucumber (Cucumis sativus Linnaeus). West Indian Gherkin grows well in sandy well-draining soils in full sun. The seed should be planted after danger of frost has passed. Seed are available from many heirloom seed companies. West Indian Gherkin can be used as you would use the common garden cucumber—eaten fresh in salads, pickled, or added to stews.--A. Diamond

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Not Native

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