Russian cucumber
thladiantha dubia
Also known as: ["Russian cucumber","Thladiantha dubia"]
Overview
A climbing vine native to Asia, known for its ornamental and potential medicinal uses.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cucurbitales |
| Family: | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus: | Thladiantha |
| Botanical Name: | Thladiantha dubia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence in a partially shaded garden area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
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 light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust indoor placement based on light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; thrives in moderate warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate warmth for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of long or leggy stems; pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before new growth; remove dead or damaged stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow under intense heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Thladiantha dubia. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Thladiantha dubia can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThladiantha dubia contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon ingestion. The plant's effects are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Thladiantha dubia edible?
A: The plant is not commonly consumed, and its edibility is not well-documented.
Q: How does Thladiantha dubia grow?
A: It is a climbing vine that requires support and thrives in warm, sunny conditions.
Q: Does Thladiantha dubia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and growth habit.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cucurbitaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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