Japanese Snake Gourd (Trichosanthes ovigera)

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

Trichosanthes ovigera is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. It is in leaf from May to October, in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from September to October. 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.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Roots/Tubers

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

An edible starch is obtained from the root. The immature fruit is preserves in miso or salt. The mature fruit is about 7cm long. A nutritional analysis is available. — An edible starch is obtained from the root.; The immature fruit is preserves in miso or salt.; The mature fruit is about 7cm long.; A nutritional analysis is available.

Habitat & North American Range

Fertile and damp places in mountain wilds in China. Brushwoods along valleys, open forests on mountain slopes at elevations of 700 - 2500 metres. (Zone 9)