Snake Gourd
Trichosanthes cucumerina L.
Location
Vegetable Garden
Family
Cucurbitaceae
Common names
Snake Gourd, Serpent Gourd, Paduvala
Native range
South and Southeast Asia
Habitat
Tropical gardens and farms
Flowering
July to October
Fruiting
July to October
Conservation status
Not listed
About this plant
Snake gourd is a vigorous, climbing vine that produces extremely long, slender fruits—sometimes over a meter in length—that twist and curl like snakes, giving the plant its name. Leaves are broad, lobed, and green with soft hairs. Flowers are large, white, and showy with lace-like, fringed petals. They bloom at night and are often pollinated by moths. Fruits slender, curved, and snake like in appearance. Immature fruits are pale green or white and edible; mature fruits turn reddish and become fibrous.
Uses
The young, tender fruits are edible and widely used in Indian, Sri Lankan, and Southeast Asian cuisines. Commonly cooked in curries, stir-fries, and stews, or stuffed and baked. It is rich in dietary Fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
Growing conditions
Requires full sun, well-drained, fertile soil, Moderate watering; avoid waterlogging, Needs a strong trellis or fence for climbing
Habit
Fast-growing, climbing vine