Snake Gourd (Trichosanthes cucumerina)

Snake Gourd (Trichosanthes cucumerina sub. anguina): a rare cucumber plant that is truly interesting from its very particular botany: it is a fast-growing climber that produces fruits that are very similar to snakes in shape and color. When ripe, the green streaked with black turns to shades of red, incredibly ornamental.
The intense scent of the leaves, reminiscent of other cucurbits such as fennel squash, may make it seem inedible, but the fruits actually have a delightful flavor. In Punjab, India, its native region, it is highly prized and a staple in traditional recipes.
Cultivation is simple, it is important to give it well-amended soil because the plant is vigorous and large.
Production is also massive, with each plant producing numerous fruits until the first cold weather. It is highly macrothermal and the cold is its limit.
It should be grown by providing it with a solid and wide climbing structure, so as to prevent the plant from crowding itself due to its vigor.
Excellent for those who want to bring new flavors from around the world to the table.