Guadeloupe cucumber, mouse melon, Mexican sour gherkin
melothria pendula
Also known as: ["Cucumis anguria","Cucumis melo"]
Overview
A small, vining plant native to Mexico and Central America, producing tiny, cucumber-like fruits with a tart flavor.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","fast growing","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cucurbitales |
| Family: | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus: | Melothria |
| Botanical Name: | Melothria pendula |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in warm, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; trim back overgrown vines without removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak afternoon sun in hot regions; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light patterns.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, or when top inch of soil is dry
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for succulents or cacti; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 70–85°F (21–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes frost.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing which can harm the plant; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem, cut below a node, remove lower leaves, place in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use stems with visible nodes for better rooting; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control vine length, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/diseased parts, shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any circling roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container; typically every 1–2 years.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot, prepare new soil mix, handle roots carefully, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even moisture distribution, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; increase frequency in hot, dry conditions; reduce in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage, incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility, ensure a loose texture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts, leaves may turn yellow or brown, risk of frost damage or death in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, use a heat mat if needed, protect from drafts, avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch, reduced flowering or fruiting, increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, use mulch to retain soil moisture, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during active growth, avoid dormant periods.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMelothria pendula is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk of poisoning when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMelothria pendula is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant is not associated with any adverse effects when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMelothria pendula, commonly known as guinea corn or mouse melon, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant is edible and is often consumed in various culinary applications.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are mouse melons safe for pets?
A: Yes, they are non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How do you grow Melothria pendula?
A: Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and provide support for climbing.
Q: Can you eat the fruits raw?
A: Yes, the small fruits can be eaten raw like cucumbers, with a slightly sour taste.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cucurbitaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, or when top |
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