Spine gourd

Spine Gourd (also known as Momordica dioica or Teasel gourd) is a tropical vine that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. It is a perennial plant that is native to Asia, particularly India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. The plant is known for its fruit, which is consumed as a vegetable in many parts of the world.

Description

The Spine Gourd plant is a climbing or trailing vine that can reach up to 5 meters in length. It has simple, alternate leaves that are 4-12 cm long. The plant's fruit is oval-shaped, with a spiny outer surface and a soft, fleshy interior. The fruit is green when young, turning to a bright orange color when ripe.

Cultivation

Spine Gourd is a warm-season crop, preferring temperatures between 25-30°C. It is typically grown in sandy or loamy soil with good drainage. The plant is propagated through seeds, which are sown directly into the ground. The vines are usually trained to grow on trellises or other supports to keep the fruit off the ground and prevent rotting.

Uses

The fruit of the Spine Gourd is commonly used in Indian cuisine, where it is often cooked into curries or pickled for later use. The fruit is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron, making it a nutritious addition to the diet. In addition to its culinary uses, the plant has also been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its purported health benefits.

See Also

• Cucurbitaceae
• Indian cuisine
• Ayurvedic medicine

References

🌱 This Cucurbitaceae related article is a stub.

This Ayurveda related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.