Baboon's cucumber - Kedrostis africana (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Baboon's cucumber

The baboon's cucumber is a hard caudiciform native to South Africa and Namibia. It is a drought-resistant succulent with a big underground tuber that stores water. The Royal Horticultural Society awarded this decorative self-fertile plant the Garden Merit Award.

Scientific classification

Species

Baboon's cucumber (Kedrostis africana)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Vine, Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

6 m

Plant Height

50 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

8 cm

Flower Size

Orange

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Baboon's cucumber

Distribution of Baboon's cucumber

Distribution Map

Baboon's cucumber is native to Southern Africa. It is found in well-drained sandy or loamy soil in woodlands, grasslands, and mountain slopes. Baboon's cucumber is not listed as a noxious weed or invasive, nor has it been introduced to regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Desert

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Baboon's cucumber is generally grown for its striking foliage, flowers and fruits, as well as its unusual growth habit of vines draping down from a large aboveground tuber. It is most often grown in a large pot with some kind of trellis or support for its vines, but can also be planted in-ground if the climate is warm and the soil is well-draining enough. If so, it is generally used as a specimen plant or to cover a wall or trellis.

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Care Guide for Baboon's cucumber

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Adapted for infrequent watering, baboon's cucumber thrives on a regimen of once every three weeks, showing drought tolerance and preferring well-draining soil. It benefits from a growing season aligned with occasional rain, ensuring adequate moisture for optimal growth.

Fertilize: Baboon's cucumber thrives with bi-monthly applications of balanced succulent fertilizer during spring and summer. Use a quarter dose to prevent burning. Suspend fertilization in fall and winter, resuming as growth resumes. Avoid direct stem contact and adhere strictly to recommended dosage to prevent damage.

Propagation: The best time to propagate baboon's cucumber is in Spring, using sowing for easy success. Healthy root system development indicates successful propagation, and utilizing well-draining soil is essential for optimal growth.

Repotting: Repot baboon's cucumber every 2 years during its growth phase using a slightly larger container. Provide indirect light and refrain from overwatering. A well-draining pot promotes healthy growth. Remember, patience is key as baboon's cucumber needs time to adjust post-repotting.

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