Chayote
Sicyos edulis
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Cucurbitaceae
- Genus:
- Sicyos
- Species:
- Sicyos edulis
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Annual | Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb , Vine
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- Low
- Bloom Months:
- may, jun, jul, aug
- Bloom Colors:
- white
Native Range
United States: Guam, Hawaii, Louisiana, Puerto Rico, Palau
Host Plant for Caterpillars
cucumber moth (Diaphania indica-complex), melonworm moth (Diaphania hyalinata), Simplicia caeneusalis
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- rich, well-drained loamy soil
- pH:
- 5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- consistently moist
- Notes:
- native to tropical regions, prefers fertile soils