Plants in family cucurbitaceae
Cucurbita pepo
Cucurbita pepo is a cultivated plant species that includes varieties of winter squash and pumpkin. Domesticated in the Americas, it is known for its yellow flowers and lobed leaves. This plant is a host for various insects and is favored by squash bees for its pollen. It is one of the oldest domesticated species, with a wide range of varieties.
Citrullus lanatus
Citrullus lanatus, commonly known as watermelon, is a heat-loving plant that produces juicy, sweet fruit with red or yellow flesh. The fruit typically ranges from 7 to 10 inches in size and weighs between 8 to 10 pounds, making it convenient for refrigeration. Developed from the 'Mountain Sweet' melon, this variety thrives in regions with long, warm summers, which are essential for producing large, flavorful watermelons. Its dark green rind with lighter stripes adds to its visual appeal, making it a popular choice for summer gardens.
Lagenaria siceraria
Lagenaria siceraria, commonly known as the hard-shelled gourd, is a versatile plant with vines that can grow up to 16 feet long. It is prized for its durable shell, which can last for decades once cured, making it ideal for craft projects like birdhouses. The gourd has an emerald green color with light speckles and can have either a curved or straight neck. It matures in 80 to 140 days and attracts hummingbirds. This plant is well-suited for those interested in crafting and gardening.
Cucurbita maxima 'Atlantic Giant'
Cucurbita maxima 'Atlantic Giant' is known for its potential to reach large sizes, making it suitable for carving, pies, and soups. This heat-loving plant is a favorite among those looking to grow giant pumpkins.
Xerosicyos perrieri
Xerosicyos perrieri is a succulent native to Madagascar, known for its ability to thrive in full sun and temperatures ranging from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. It requires low humidity and should be watered only when the soil is completely dry. This plant is part of the Cucurbitaceae family and is well-suited for dry, sunny environments.
Xerosicyos 'Silver Dollar'
Xerosicyos 'Silver Dollar' is a succulent with slender cylindrical gray stems and round leaves that range from pea green to gray-green. It climbs using slender forked tendrils, making it an interesting addition to bright light environments.
Cucurbita pepo 'Gelber Englischer'
Cucurbita pepo 'Gelber Englischer' is an heirloom squash variety from Germany, known for its vibrant yellow fruits with creamy yellow and light green stripes. Best harvested when 2-4 inches wide for optimal flavor and texture, the fruits mature to a dark orange if left on the vine. This heat-loving plant is ideal for summer gardens.
Cucurbita maxima 'Big Max'
Cucurbita maxima 'Big Max' is a giant pumpkin variety favored by growers for its round, smooth, light-orange skin. Ideal for Halloween carving or holiday decorations, it can also be used for canning or making pumpkin pies. To achieve maximum size, it is recommended to grow one pumpkin per vine.
Gerrardanthus macrorhizus
Gerrardanthus macrorhizus, native to southern Africa, is a perennial climber with a succulent, pumpkin-like caudex. It features ivy-shaped leaves and small, orchid-like flowers, known for its fast growth.
Cephalopentandra ecirrhosa
Cephalopentandra ecirrhosa is a perennial plant with a conical rootstock, known for its yellow flowers and orange-red fruit. This caudiciform species is dormant in extreme temperatures and prefers a sunny position with some shade for the caudex. It requires regular watering in spring and summer, with drier conditions in winter.
Xerosicyos danguyi 'String Of Coins'
Xerosicyos danguyi 'String Of Coins' is a drought-tolerant plant that thrives in sunny areas. It requires well-draining soil and minimal watering, making it ideal for south-facing locations.
Cucumis sativus 'Muncher'
This burpless cucumber variety is known for its smooth, medium-green fruits that are neither bitter nor tough. It grows on healthy, vigorous vines that are prolific and mosaic-resistant, making it ideal for pickling or snacking. The fruits are best harvested at 6-9 inches for fresh eating or 4-6 inches for pickling.
Citrullus lanatus 'Sugar Baby'
Citrullus lanatus 'Sugar Baby' is a sweet melon variety known for its red-orange flesh and small dark seeds. Weighing between 10 to 20 pounds, its thick rind turns dark green to nearly black when ripe. This early maturing melon resists cracking and prefers well-drained, sandy loam soil with a pH of 6 to 6.8.