SafePlants

Gooseberry Gd: An Exploration of Names and Species

The name "Gooseberry Gd" can be confusing as it refers to multiple plant species, primarily within the Cucumis genus. This page serves to clarify the various plants that may be called "Gooseberry Gd," focusing on their scientific classifications, characteristics, and distributions.

Scientific Names and Common Names

• Gooseberry Gd (common name)
• Cucumis anguria (scientific name)
• Cucumis myriocarpus (scientific name)
• Bur Gherkin (common name for Cucumis anguria)
• West Indian Gherkin (common name for Cucumis anguria)
• Paddy Melon (common name for Cucumis myriocarpus)

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Cucurbitaceae (for Cucumis anguria)
• Synonyms for Cucumis anguria:
  • C. anguria var. anguria
  • C. anguria var. longipes
  • C. longipes

Considerations for Pets

• Some sources describe Cucumis anguria as having a "spiny fruit".

Distribution and Habitat

• Cucumis anguria is considered to be of cultivated origin, likely derived from an African species.
• Cucumis myriocarpus is an exotic species in the U.S.

Ecological Role

• Cucumis myriocarpus is listed in "Invasive Species Most Unwanted." This suggests it can be an aggressive and problematic plant in certain environments.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Both Cucumis anguria and Cucumis myriocarpus are vines.
• Cucumis myriocarpus is an annual herb.
• Cucumis myriocarpus produces tiny, round, non-edible fruits that are deep green with lighter stripes when young, turning yellow with light stripes as they mature.

Quirky Facts

• The fruit of Cucumis anguria is used in pickling.

Further Information

• USDA PLANTS Database (for information on Cucumis anguria and Cucumis myriocarpus)
• Invasive Plant Atlas (for information on Cucumis myriocarpus)
• FAO's Ecoport Web Site (for information on Cucumis myriocarpus)
• EDDMapS Distribution maps (for distribution information, although noted as incomplete)