Multiloba Trichosanthes (Trichosanthes multiloba)

Family: Cucurbitaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Trichosanthes multiloba is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER at a fast rate. It is frost tender. It is in flower from July to September. 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 Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

An edible starch is obtained from the root. It requires leeching. — An edible starch is obtained from the root.; It requires leeching.; The root is harvested in the autumn, cut into thick slices, soaked for 4 - 5 days in water, changing the water daily until the root disintegrates and can be mashed into a fine pulp.; It is then steamed into cakes or used for making dumplings.

Habitat & North American Range

Found at elevations between 600 and 1,800 metres in the Himalayas. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)