SafePlants

Cucurbita ficifolia: The Fig Leaf Gourd

Also known as Malabar Gourd, Figleaf Gourd, Shark Fin Melon, and many other common names, Cucurbita ficifolia is a fascinating and versatile winter squash.

Considerations for Pets

• While the text indicates that the plant is non-toxic to dogs, be aware that the sprouting seed produces a substance described as "toxic."

Considerations for Children

• The plant is known to be an aggressive vine.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cucurbita ficifolia Bouch
• Family: Cucurbitaceae
• Synonyms: Cucurbita melanospermum, Cucurbita pepo ficifolia
• Common Names: Fig Leaf Gourd, Malabar Gourd, Shark Fin Melon, Siam Pumpkin, Thai Marrow, Chilacayote, Pie Melon, Gila, Seven Year Melon, Calabaza China, Cayote, Potiron Cheveux D'ange, Fig-Leaved Gourd, Melon De Malabar, Thin Vermicelli pumpkin, Asian pumpkin.

Distribution and Habitat

• Grows in Asia, Chile, France, Mexico, Portugal, Peru, and Argentina.
• Also found in tropical Africa, specifically in the highlands of Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania, and occasionally grown in Angola.
• Commonly found in Britain's ethnic communities.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Its leaves resemble fig leaves, hence the name "Fig Leaf Gourd."
• The fruit is round and green-and-white speckled, lasting over a year after harvesting.
• It is described as a rampant, spreading vine that trails for many yards.

Ecological Role

• This plant is known to be an aggressive vine.

Uses

• The young fruit can be boiled and eaten as a vegetable.
• Cooked greens and salad greens can be harvested.
• The flowers are edible.
• It is frequently used as a rootstock for chilling-sensitive cucumber plants.

Genetic and Cytological Information

• An aspartic proteinase has been found in the seeds of the figleaf gourd.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Figleaf gourd seedlings have been studied in the context of interspecific interactions mediated by allelochemicals.

Quirky Facts

• One of its common names, "Shark Fin Melon," likely derives from its culinary use in a soup that mimics shark fin soup.

Further Information

• USDA Plants Database: http://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CUFI2