Wild cucumber (Marah macrocarpa)

Wild cucumber

Wild cucumber (Marah macrocarpa) is an odd-looking plant that features a 'hairy looking ball' or 'hairy cucumber.' A soap-like extract can be processed from the large tuber of the manroot. Wild cucumber is able to self pollinate with a little help from insects moving between the male and female flowers.

Scientific classification

Species

Wild cucumber (Marah macrocarpa)

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Vine

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

6 m

Plant Height

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

8 mm to 1.3 cm

Flower Size

White

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Wild cucumber

Distribution of Wild cucumber

Distribution Map

Wild cucumber is indigenous to the western coast of North America, particularly thriving in the Mediterranean-like climates of this major region. Its presence is most notable in the areas characterized by temperate weather conditions with dry summers and mild, wet winters. The range of wild cucumber does not traditionally extend beyond this natural habitat, and it is not widely reported as an introduced species in other parts of the world.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woodlands, coastal sage, chaparral, rocky hillsides, riparian woods and thickets, stream bottoms, disturbed sites, roadsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Wild cucumber

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Adapted to dry habitats, wild cucumber is drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained soil with balanced moisture. Watering is recommended every three weeks, utilizing natural rainfall during the growing season to support its resilience in arid environments.

Fertilize: For wild cucumber, apply balanced fertilizers during growth, using high-nitrogen variants pre-flowering. Fertilize bi-monthly, increasing in spring/summer and reducing in fall, pausing in winter. Use slow-release types and irrigate post-application to prevent root burn while regularly monitoring soil fertility for optimal health.

Pruning: Wild cucumber, with its sprawling vines and gourd-like fruit, thrives with annual pruning in early spring. Remove dead or damaged stems and trim vigorous branches to improve airflow. Timely pruning enhances plant health, promotes growth, and improves fruit production.

Propagation: Wild cucumber can be propagated by sowing clean seeds after soaking for 24 hours to improve germination. Use well-draining soil and maintain consistent moisture. Provide bright light for seedlings, shield them from extreme temperatures, and transplant when strong enough, ensuring roots remain undamaged.

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Images of Wild cucumber

Distribution of Wild cucumber

Care Guide for Wild cucumber

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