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waxgourd
Scientific Name: Benincasa hispida
Family: Cucurbitaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Vine, Forb/herb
Duration: Annual
Other Names:
Wax Gourd (Benincasa hispida)
The wax gourd, scientifically known as Benincasa hispida, is a fascinating vegetable with a rich history and diverse uses, especially in Asian cuisine.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions that the fruits grow on vines, similar to pumpkins, which could be a consideration for pets in gardens.
Considerations for Children
- The text mentions that the fruits grow on vines, similar to pumpkins, which could be a consideration for children in gardens.
Common Names
- Wax Gourd
- Winter Melon
- Ash Gourd
- Chinese Watermelon
- White Gourd
- Chinese Wax Gourd
- Large Fuzzy Melon
- Tallow Gourd
- Christmas Melon
- Dong Gwa
- Tung Gwa
- Bi Bee
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Benincasa hispida
- Family: Cucurbitaceae (Gourd Family)
- Synonyms: B. cerifera
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to tropical Asia.
- Successfully cultivated in lowland tropical environments up to an elevation of 1,300 meters.
- Not known in a truly wild situation.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Fast-growing, long-season, warm-climate vegetable.
- Produces fruits on vines.
- Fruits can grow very large, up to 15 kilograms.
- Young fruits are hairy.
- Mature fruits lose their hairs and develop a waxy coating.
- Has an extensive root system.
- Large, solitary, yellow flowers.
Quirky Facts
- Records of Chinese use of the wax gourd trace back to 500 A.D.
- The Chinese name for stewed winter melon is 红烧冬瓜 (hng shāo dōng guā).
Uses
- Commonly used in soups and curries in tropical Asia.
- Popular in Asian cuisine.
- The fruit has some medicinal uses.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- The waxy skin of the fruit presumably protects it from certain insect attacks.