Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) is a creeping vine native to South Asia. It has a long history of cultivation - mentions of its use are found in various ancient scripts, including the Bible, Epic of Gilgamesh and Pliny the Elder's "Natural History". Today, cucumber is one of the most widely cultivated vegetable species in the world.

Cucumis melo includes a variety of melons, including honeydew, cantaloupe, and muskmelon. These melons are an excellent source of vitamins A and C and are commonly eaten fresh or dried. It is occasionally turned into oil or liqueur.

Instead of the usual green skin, white Wonder Cucumber has a distinctive white exterior. This heritage variety was developed in America during the 19th century. Its vigorous and easy-to-grow vines will grow on the ground but produce the best fruit on trellises and frames. This large variety needs plenty of space to grow.

African horned cucumber’s unique appearance makes it easily identifiable. The fruit is covered in horn-like protrusions, which is why it is occasionally called the 'horned melon'. It provides water in the Kalahari Desert in the dry season. When the fruit becomes overly ripe it bursts open, scattering the numerous seeds.

Pea pumpkin grows native across Africa, southern Asia, and parts of Australia. Its clusters of small berries turn from green to bright red as they mature. While green, though, they have small striations, making them appear like tiny pumpkins or watermelons - thus the name.

A fast-growing and prolific melon cultivar from the late 19th century, the cucumber 'Crystal Lemon' develops many lemon-colored cucumbers which it was presumably named after. Many gardeners will grow the cucumber 'Crystal Lemon' for consumption of its white flesh that tastes sweet, but not bitter.

The cucumber 'Burpless Tasty Green' is a cultivar from the gourd family, and of the melon species. It is favored for its early and lengthy harvest season, flavor, and digestive ease. This fruit is a trailing variety which in addition to being a great food choice, also has beautiful yellow flowers which look pretty when they bloom.

Cantaloupe 'Emir' is the perfect backyard fruit tree! This variety produces sweet, juicy fruit that is perfect for a refreshing snack during the summer months. Cantaloupe 'Emir' are known for their high nutritional value and delicious taste, making them a staple in many diets. In addition, this Cantaloupe is easy to grow and maintain, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners.

West indian gherkin (Cucumis anguria) is related to the common cucumber. It is primarily grown as a crop plant in the subtropics and tropics in the same manner. It was introduced to other areas of the world and is considered an invasive weed in some parts of Australia and North America. The fruit can be eaten raw, cooked, or pickled.

Volunteer cucumber is a vining plant recognized by its slightly bristly, elongated fruit, which hints at its resilience in arid climates. The leaves are lobed and rough, typical of the Cucumis genus, providing a stark contrast to its delicate yellow blossoms. This climber thrives in warm environments, often using its tendrils to ascend and capture sunlight efficiently.

Cucumis dipsaceus, also known as Arabian cucumber or hedgehog cucumber, is an annual climbing herb that can be found in tropical and arid locations. The plant is native to eastern Africa, first found in Sudan, southern Egypt, and Ethiopia. The developed fruits of the plant change from green to yellow and contain many seeds. The hairs that cover the oblong fruits nickname this species the “hedgehog cucumber”. Cucumis dipsaceus has several usages, as fodder, medicine, and human consumption. The cucumber is normally collected in the wild, but has also been domesticated. The young shoots and leaves of the plant are traditionally cooked with groundnut paste, and with coconut milk when available. The fruit of the plant is used medicinally as an analgesic. C. dipsaceus has become invasive all across the Americas. This includes islands in Hawaii, several states in the U.S. and islands in South America as well. There are no known methods of control.

Entering the exotic world of Cucumbers, gooseberry gourd awaits with an unusual mix of allure and peculiarity. Versatile in the kitchen, it adds a dash of flavor to salads with small, spiky fruits packed with seeds used for pickling. It takes an exploratory sight and a brave soul to deal with its spiky leaves that grow in a tangled mass. As for seamanship, this vine-like plant pays itself off via its anti-ivory properties that keep elephants at bay.