Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Cucurbitaceae

Genus:

Benincasa

Species:

Benincasa hispida

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Annual

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb , Vine

Height:

1-2 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Low

Bloom Months:

jan, feb, jun, jul, aug, dec

Bloom Colors:

yellow

Ground Cover:

Yes

Native Range

United States: Guam, Hawaii, Palau

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

native to tropical and subtropical regions