Momordica rostrata Ø 20

This remarkable caudiciform develops a massive, woody, deeply grooved caudex that grows entirely exposed above ground. During the growing season, thin and vigorous climbing stems emerge from this swollen trunk, bearing small bright green leaves that the plant uses in nature to latch onto surrounding vegetation. In summer it produces small yellow flowers, followed on female specimens by decorative orange fruits shaped like small chili peppers.

Exposure: full sun or bright partial shade; indoors, place near a very sunny window.

Soil: well-draining, with a prevalence of inorganic material (pumice, lava grit, coarse sand) and little organic matter.

Watering: regular from spring to late summer, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings; reduce drastically in autumn-winter, keeping almost dry.

Fertilizing: once a month during growth, with a low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizer formulated for succulents.

Flowers and fruits: yellow flowers are unisexual; to obtain the orange chili-shaped fruits, both male and female plants are needed.

Curiosity: in the wild, the caudex can exceed one meter in diameter; ripe fruits split open to reveal bright red seeds embedded in sticky pulp.

Not grafted
Code 1697