Citrullus ecirrhosus

Citrullus ecirrhosus is a species of melon in the family Cucurbitaceae. It is commonly known as the wild watermelon and is native to Southern Africa. Unlike its cultivated relative, the watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), Citrullus ecirrhosus produces small, inedible fruits with hard rinds.

Description

Citrullus ecirrhosus is a trailing or climbing herbaceous plant with hairy stems. The leaves are deeply lobed and covered in rough hairs. The flowers are yellow and the fruits are small, round, and green with white stripes. The fruits contain numerous black seeds.

Distribution and habitat

Citrullus ecirrhosus is native to Southern Africa, where it grows in arid regions. It is particularly common in the Kalahari Desert and the Namib Desert. The plant is adapted to survive in harsh, dry conditions and can often be found growing in sandy soils.

Uses

While the fruits of Citrullus ecirrhosus are not edible, the plant has other uses. The seeds are sometimes used in traditional medicine in Southern Africa. The plant is also used for fodder for livestock.

Conservation status

Citrullus ecirrhosus is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like all wild species, it could be threatened by habitat loss and climate change.

See also

• Citrullus lanatus
• Cucurbitaceae
• Flora of Southern Africa

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