Cucurbita foetidissima

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Cucurbita foetidissima, commonly known as buffalo gourd, stinking gourd, or wild pumpkin, is a species of gourd in the Cucurbitaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.

Description[edit | edit source]

Cucurbita foetidissima is a perennial vine that can grow up to 15 meters in length. The leaves are large, up to 30 cm in diameter, and are covered in a waxy coating that gives them a blue-green color. The flowers are yellow and bloom in the summer. The fruit is a large, round gourd that turns yellow when ripe and has a strong, unpleasant odor, hence the name "stinking gourd".

Distribution and habitat[edit | edit source]

Cucurbita foetidissima is found in arid regions of the southwestern United States, including Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and California, as well as northern Mexico. It grows in a variety of habitats, including deserts, grasslands, and scrublands.

Uses[edit | edit source]

The seeds of Cucurbita foetidissima have been used by Native American tribes for food and medicine. The gourds were also used as containers and the vines for making ropes.

Cultivation[edit | edit source]

Cucurbita foetidissima is a hardy plant that can tolerate poor soil and drought conditions. It is often grown as an ornamental plant for its large, attractive leaves and yellow flowers.

Conservation status[edit | edit source]

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

See also[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD