Snake Gourd

£2.50

A heat-loving relative of squashes, this version of snake gourd produces fruit about 40 cm long.

Description

Trichosanthes cucumerina

A heat-loving relative of squashes and courgettes, this version of snake gourd produces fruit about 40 cm long. Popular in Bangladeshi, Indian and Sri Lankan cooking, the fruit should be harvested young, when they are still green and firm.

The sprawling, viny plants thrive on heat and are well-adapted to the protected environment of a tunnel or greenhouse. When the vines begin elongating, be sure to train them up canes or strings to lift them off the ground. And because the plants are so vigorous, they should be grown only in larger structures, where there is enough room for them to stretch out without smothering other vegetables growing inside.

Approximate number of seeds per pack: 8

Snake Gourd vines take a lot of space
Snake Gourds should be grown in a tunnel or greenhouse – but they need a lot of space.

 

 

 

 

Additional information

More information

Full-size fruit can grow at least 155cm long. As they mature and become inedible, the flesh softens and becomes mushy, while the surface gradually turns bright orange. A red, slippery coating also develops around each seed.
Network of strings or wires for vines to run along.