Chayote - Sechium edule (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images, Edible)

Chayote

Also known as: Choke, Christophine, Pepineca, Alligator pear, Choko

Chayote is an edible squash in the gourd family that has long been cultivated for food in Latin America. It can be eaten raw or cooked, and it has a slightly sweet taste that has been compared to that of cucumber.

Scientific classification

Species

Chayote (Sechium edule)

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb, Vine

Plant Type

Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

12 m

Plant Height

50 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Green, White

Fruit Color

Images of Chayote

Distribution of Chayote

Distribution Map

Chayote is native to Central America, with Mexico being its region of origin. Its cultivation has spread across major regions, including parts of Asia, Europe, Oceania, and South America. While chayote is widely farmed, it has also established itself in areas beyond its native range. In certain regions such as the Pacific Islands, the Caribbean, and parts of South America, chayote is sometimes thought to be invasive and may have an impact on local ecosystems. Through cultivation, chayote maintains a global presence, adapting to various climates and agricultural practices.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Moist, steep hillsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Care Guide for Chayote

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from warm, humid regions, chayote prefers consistent moisture and should be watered every two weeks to avoid waterlogging. Typically grown outdoors, it thrives best when conditions mimic its natural tropical climate, aligning with rainfall patterns.

Fertilize: Chayote thrives with high-phosphorus fertilizers for fruiting and balanced fertilizers for overall health, applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Incorporate compost to enhance soil fertility. Monitor for nutrient issues to ensure healthy growth and abundant yield.

Pruning: Chayote requires strategic pruning in early spring to promote growth and fruit production. Remove dead stems and thin overcrowded branches for better air circulation and sunlight. Make clean cuts to prevent disease, following trusted horticultural guidelines for best practices.

Propagation: Chayote is a perennial plant from Mexico and Central America, prized for its edible fruit. It propagates by sowing mature fruit containing seeds in well-draining soil and needs consistent moisture for successful growth. Once established, chayote yields abundantly.

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Images of Chayote

Distribution of Chayote

Care Guide for Chayote

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