Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Cucurbitaceae

Genus:

Marah

Species:

Marah watsonii

USDA Symbol:

MAWA2

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb , Vine

Height:

600 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

mar,apr,may

Bloom Colors:

white

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rocky, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to arid regions with sparse vegetation

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Scarification:

Seed coat scarification required before sowing

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds benefit from scarification (nicking seed coat) followed by cold stratification for 30-60 days.