Cucumis dipsaceus, also known as Arabian cucumber or hedgehog cucumber, is an annual climbing herb. The young shoots and leaves of the plant are traditionally cooked with groundnut paste, and with coconut milk when available. The fruit of the plant is used medicinally as an analgesic. C. dipsaceus has become invasive all across the Americas. This includes islands in Hawaii, several states in the U.S. and islands in South America as well. There are no known methods of control.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Cucumis dipsaceus, also known as Arabian cucumber, hedgehog cucumber or teasel gourd, is an annual climbing herb that can be found in tropical and arid locations. The plant is native to eastern Africa, first found in Sudan, southern Egypt, and Ethiopia.
The stems of C. dipsaceus grow several meters long with a climbing habit and are covered with tiny hairs (Lata and Mittal). The stems are quadrangular like those of the mint family and are hispid and weak (Geethakumary et al). It can also be found growing procumbant and trailing along the ground without growing further roots along the nodes.
The leaves are pubescent, cordate, and have a circular shape (Geethakumary et al). They are trilobed and notched at the base where the leaf connects to the petiole which gives the leaf a “heart” shape in appearance (Lata and Mittal). The leaves grow 2–8 cm long and 3–9 cm wide with hairs covering both sides of the leaf surfaces (Geethakumary et al).
The petiole ranges from 2–10 cm long and is also covered in tiny hairs (Lata and Mittal).
The seeds resemble those of other fruits in the cucumber family having an elongated football shape and are pointed at both ends. The coloration of the seeds are a caramel brown when dry which can be compared to that of the European cucumber, C. sativus, which remains smooth and pale tan in color (Lata and Mittal).
C. dipsaceus, like many species in the cucumber family, do not bend dramatically at the nodes and are not considered geniculate. Internode spacing ranges from 2–6 cm long (Lata and Mittal).
The roots of C. dipsaceus do not form tubers. The roots do not harden nor do they develop a woody outer layer (Lata and Mittal).
The inflorescence of C. dipsaceus is monoecious and unisexual with each plant having separate male and female flowers. The male flowers range from 1-1.2 x 2-2.5 cm, are “corolla yellow,” and have three stamens with 2mm long anthers. Female flowers range from 2-2.3 x 2-2.2 cm, are also “corolla yellow”, and have three-lobed stigmas. Both the male and female flower sexes do not have bracts. Flowering occurs from September to November with subsequent fruiting in its native range.
The developing and immature fruits of C. dipsaceus are green and densely covered in tiny hairs. The hairs that cover the oblong fruits nickname this species the “hedgehog cucumber” (Lata and Mittal). As the fruits develop they change from green to yellow and contain many seeds (Geethakumary et al). The hairs do not fall off like that of a kiwi fruit. The fruit of C. dipsaceus ranges from 6-6.5 cm long and 2.5–4 cm in diameter. In its native habitat, fruiting for this species occurs from November to January.
Cucumis dipsaceus is an annual climbing herb that can be found in different habitats. C. dipsaceus grows in tropical and arid locations, and is sparsely present in areas dominated by low lying and dense vegetation. C. dipsaceus is well adapted to grow in disturbed woods and areas that have been prepared by people for agriculture. The herb can be found at elevations of 400 m-1,800 m. It is uncommon in foothills and more common in higher grasslands and woodlands.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight and Soil
Teasel gourd prefers full sunlight exposure, which is crucial for optimal growth and fruiting. Additionally, teasel gourd prefers well-draining soil, moderately fertile, yet can tolerate less ideal conditions.
Watering
Originating from regions with a seasonal climate, teasel gourd has adapted to moderate moisture levels in its native environment. It exhibits a preference for consistent hydration but can withstand short periods of dryness. Watering should align with its natural rhythm, thus requiring watering every week. As an outdoor plant often cultivated for its unique fruit, teasel gourd thrives best when its soil moisture is carefully managed to mimic the wet-dry cycles it experiences in the wild, ensuring optimal growth and fruit production.
Fertilizing
For optimal growth, teasel gourd requires balanced nutrition fertilizers with equal NPK ratios, supplemented by high nitrogen fertilizers during vegetative growth for leafy expansion. Apply a diluted solution bi-weekly during active growth and monthly in dormancy. Benefits include robust growth, improved yields, and enhanced vigor. Over-fertilization risks root burn—moderation is key. Adjust feeding with seasonal growth changes, reducing in cooler months. Practical tip: Use slow-release granules to maintain consistent nutrient levels.
Propagation
Teasel gourd is successfully propagated through sowing, a process well-aligned with its growth habits. To optimize germination, provide a well-drained substrate and consistent moisture. Use fresh seeds, as they have higher viability, and plant them at a shallow depth. A warm environment supports better germination rates, so maintain adequate temperatures. When seedlings become sturdy, transplant them carefully to avoid root disturbance, which teasel gourd is particularly sensitive to. Gentle handling and ensuring the right soil conditions will foster healthy growth.
Transplanting
Best to relocate teasel gourd during the awakening of spring till its late bloom, as mild temperatures aid root establishment. Choose a sun-kissed spot with well-draining soil to welcome teasel gourd’s vigorous growth. Friendly note: ensure soil is fertile and moist, enhancing your transplant success.
III. Uses and Benefits
Cucumis dipsaceus has several usages, being used in both cooking and medicine. The cucumber is normally collected in the wild, but is also grown and harvested locally.
- Medicinal uses
Medicinally, C. dipsaceus is believed to have topical healing properties, although not widely practiced. Poultice (a moist mass of the plant material wrapped in cloth) is created with the leaves and tendrils of the plant, and placed on surface injuries for the treatment of wounds. The poultices are also used for treatment of soreness and inflammation. When ingested, the fruit itself is thought to treat gastrointestinal diseases, diarrhea, stomach pain, constipation, and meningitis. The roots of the plant when ingested are thought to treat hepatitis and gallstones.
- Culinary uses
Cucumis dipsaceus is a good source for amino acids including threonine, cysteine, methionine, valine, isoleucine, tyrosine, histidine, phenylalanine and lysine, having higher values in alanine, leucine, and arginine. The fruit’s macronutrient composition mainly consists of starch (1.07 mg/g) and proteins (85.9 mg/g).
The cucumber also contains varying amounts of minerals including N, P, K, Na, Mg, Mn, Ca, Fe, Zn, Cu, Si, and B, proving to be a good source of calcium (14820 ppm) and nitrogen (6300 ppm). The young shoots and leaves of the plant are traditionally cooked with groundnut paste, and with coconut milk when available. The fruit is recommended to be cooked for human consumption.
- Other uses
The seeds of the plant have been imported to countries such as India through grains. These seeds have been used in both trade and animal feed. For animal feed specifically, the plant’s leaves and fruit are used for fodder (animal feed that is given to domestic livestock).
