Chayote
Sicyos edulis
- Native to:
- Belize, Guam, Mexico, Palau, Puerto Rico
iNaturalist: © wardej (iNaturalist #257411866)
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Cucurbitaceae
- Genus:
- Sicyos
- Species:
- Sicyos edulis
- USDA Symbol:
- SEED
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Annual | Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb , Vine
- Height:
- 2000 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- Medium
- Bloom Months:
- jul,aug,sep
- Bloom Colors:
- white, greenish-white
Wildlife Benefits
- Caterpillars:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)
Host Plant for Caterpillars
cucumber moth (Diaphania indica-complex), melonworm moth (Diaphania hyalinata)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- birds, small mammals
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
Propagation & Germination
- Germination Time:
- 7–21 days
- Notes:
- Seeds germinate readily in warm soil (21-30°C) without pretreatment.