Plant types

Plant styles

Planting conditions

Seasonal interest

Nurseries & Gardens

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African Horned Cucumber

Scientific Name: Cucumis metuliferus

Also Known As

Horny Cucumber

Plant type

perennial, vine, fruit / vegetable

size

H: 5'-10'
W: 3'-10'

planting zones

1-11

African Horned Cucumber plant details

African Horned Cucumber is a broadleaf deciduous perennial fruit / vegetable or vine with green foliage. and orange fruit. Grows well with sun and regular water.

CHARACTERISTICS OF African Horned Cucumber

Plant type: perennial fruit / vegetable or vine
Plant family: cucurbitaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 3 FT - 10 FT - wide, 5 FT - 10 FT - tall
Uses: exotic, unique

GROWING CONDITIONS for African Horned Cucumber

USDA Zones: 1 - 11
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: regular

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This is a rare & exotic vine of southern African origin, growing 5-10’ feet long with small, deeply cut, 5-lobed leaves similar to those of the Watermelon. The oblong fruits are spiny & brilliant orange & mature to be 4” long. The inner flesh is bright green with a jelly-like texture & is rumored to taste somewhere between banana & lime, but some have said the taste is more like bat guano. Hmmm... Indeed, our seed planter, Anni Jensen, recommends a taste test before serving the beautiful fruit to dinner guests!