SafePlants

West Indian Gherkin (Cucumis anguria)

The West Indian Gherkin, scientifically known as Cucumis anguria, is a fascinating plant with a variety of uses and a rich history. Often mistaken for a true cucumber, it offers a unique alternative for pickling and culinary applications.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• The plant produces small, oval fruits, typically 2-3 inches long, with warty-spiny green skins.
• The vines have pointed spines and can have a burr-like appearance.
• The sprouting seed is noted to produce a toxic substance.

Common Names

• West Indian Gherkin
• Bur Cucumber
• Bur Gherkin
• Cackrey
• Gooseberry GD (sometimes erroneously)
• Maroon Cucumber
• West Indian GD
• Jerusalem Cucumber
• Maxixe

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cucumis anguria
• Family: Cucurbitaceae
• Kingdom: (Implied: Plantae)
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonyms: None explicitly stated, but noted not to cross with Cucumis sativus (common cucumber).

Distribution and Habitat

While often associated with the West Indies (Jamaica specifically), the plant most likely originated in Africa. It is also known and grown in Sri Lanka, India, and Curaçao (where it is called Komkomber Chiki).

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Annual vine with a sprawling growth habit.
• Produces small, oval fruits (2-3 inches long) with warty-spiny green skins, resembling large burrs. Some seedstocks may have smaller spines.
• Leaves are distinctive and resemble those of watermelon plants.
• Grows to be approximately 8 feet tall and 2 feet wide.

Ecological Role

The plant is resilient, heat-tolerant, and prolific. It is also pest-proof, disease-resistant and drought tolerant making it potentially invasive in certain environments, although the text does not explicitly state it is invasive.

Interactions with Other Organisms

The text mentions that the West Indian Gherkin is considered pest-proof, suggesting it may have natural defenses against certain insects or diseases.

Historical Information

• An early American heirloom.
• Selected in the 1800s for cooler climates.
• Thomas Jefferson grew it in his garden at Monticello and it was included at the President's House in Washington.

Quirky Facts

• Despite its name, the West Indian Gherkin is not a true cucumber (Cucumis sativus).
• In Curaçao, it's known as "Komkomber Chiki," which translates to "small cucumber."

Further Information

• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) provides information on Cucumis anguria.
• Wikipedia has an article about the West Indian Gherkin.