Ecballium elaterium aka Squirting Cucumber

Taxonomy

Genus Ecballium Family Cucurbitaceae Order Cucurbitales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Ecballium elaterium, also known as the squirting cucumber or exploding cucumber, is a unique plant in the Cucurbitaceae family. It is the only species in the genus Ecballium. Unlike Cyclanthera brachystachya, it has the ability to rapidly disperse its seeds by squirting a stream of mucilaginous liquid. This tender, bushy or trailing perennial is often grown as an annual. Its long, bristly stems carry dark greyish-green, five-lobed leaves. During the summer, pale yellow flowers, approximately 2cm in diameter, bloom, followed by hairy, blue-green fruit. These fruits are touch-sensitive and, when ripe, explode to release their seeds over great distances. However, it is important to note that the fruits of E. elaterium are poisonous.

Common names

Squirting Cucumber, Exploding Cucumber, Wild Cucumber

How to care for Squirting Cucumber

Difficulty

Squirting Cucumber requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Squirting Cucumber should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

Squirting Cucumber requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Squirting Cucumber will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Squirting Cucumber to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Region of origin

Squirting Cucumber’s native range is Europe - Mediterranean. Naturalized in Britain at a few locations along the south coast[17].

More info:
Wikipedia

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