Wax Gourd (Benincasa hispida)

Family: Cucurbitaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Benincasa hispida is a ANNUAL growing to 6 m (19ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. It is in leaf from June to October, in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to November. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

mild flavour, the flavour is somewhat stronger in younger fruits. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; Used as a vegetable, and in pickles, curries and preserves.; The fruit can be eaten when it is young or old, it can be picked as early as one week after fertilization.; A juicy texture with a mild flavour, the flavour is somewhat stronger in younger fruits.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known in a truly wild situation. (Zone 9)