SafePlants

Cucumis: A World of Cucumbers and Melons

The genus Cucumis encompasses a variety of twining, tendril-bearing plants within the Cucurbitaceae family. This family also includes well-known species like the cucumber (Cucumis sativus) and various melons.

Considerations for Pets

• Some wild African Cucumis species contain Cucurbitacins in their roots and fruits, which are known for their bitter taste.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cucumis
• Family: Cucurbitaceae (also known as the Gourd family)
• Major Group: Angiosperms (Flowering plants)
• Examples of species: Cucumis sativus (cucumber), Cucumis melo (melon), Cucumis metuliferus (African horned cucumber)

Distribution and Habitat

• The genus Cucumis has a major center of diversity in tropical and southern Africa.
• Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) and melon (C. melo) have wild relatives in Asia and Australia.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Cucumis species can be annuals or perennials.
• They are typically twining and tendril-bearing.
• Cucumis metuliferus is an annual climbing or, less commonly, trailing plant.
• Cucumis sativus is an annual climber that can grow up to 2 meters (6ft 7in).

Ecological Role

• The plants are almost exclusively grown as food crops.

Genetic and Cytological Information

• Cucumis sativus L. has a chromosome number of 2n=14 when crossed with C. hystrix Chakr. (2n = 2x = 24).
• Cucumis species have a chromosome number of 2n=24.

Common Names and Cultivars

• Cucumber (Cucumis sativus): Also known as garden cucumber or apple cucumber.
• Melon (Cucumis melo): Includes cultivars like cantaloupe, muskmelon, honeydew, and crenshaw.

Quirky Facts

• The Latin word "cucumis" means "cucumber."
• Vergil's cucumbers were likely smaller, rounder, spikier, and seedier than modern cucumbers.
• Some Cucumis species are cultivated for ornamental use, producing fruits that don't resemble edible cucumbers.

Resources

• ARKive for Cucumis photos and facts.