Plants in family cucurbitaceae
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.
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.
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.
Corallocarpus welwitschii
Corallocarpus welwitschii is a perennial climbing plant native to several African countries, including Angola and South Africa. It grows as a ground cover or vine, reaching up to 2 meters tall, with greyish-green foliage and pale-yellow flowers in summer. This plant is frost-hardy and has edible roots.
Citrullus lanatus 'Crimson Sweet'
Citrullus lanatus 'Crimson Sweet' is a classic watermelon variety known for its bright crimson flesh and large size, typically weighing 20-25 pounds. It is well-suited for northern climates and is resistant to common diseases like Fusarium wilt and anthracnose. The fruit's bottom turns ivory when ripe, indicating readiness for harvest. This watermelon is a staple in home gardens due to its reliable quality and sweet taste.
Cucumis melo 'Charentais'
Cucumis melo 'Charentais' is a true cantaloupe known for its smooth skin with light green stripes and creamy orange flesh. The fruits weigh 1.5-2 pounds and mature to a creamy yellow, offering an unsurpassed flavor. This heat-loving plant is ideal for summer gardens.
Cucurbita maxima 'Cinderella'
Cucurbita maxima 'Cinderella', also known as 'Rouge Vif d'Étampes', is a French heirloom pumpkin from the 1880s. It features deeply ridged, large fruits weighing 15-20 pounds, perfect for baking and canning. This heat-tolerant variety thrives in warm climates.
Citrullus lanatus 'Charleston Gray'
Citrullus lanatus 'Charleston Gray' is an open-pollinated watermelon variety with a greenish-gray rind. It is resistant to Fusarium wilt and anthracnose disease, producing fruits that are 22 to 26 inches long and weigh 25 to 35 pounds.
Cucurbita moschata
Cucurbita moschata is a versatile plant originating from Central or northern South America, known for its tolerance to hot, humid weather and resistance to diseases and insects. It is commonly used in commercial pumpkin pie mixes and can hybridize with other Cucurbita species. This long-vining plant is an important food source for indigenous people, with edible flowers, seeds, and flesh.
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.