About

More Info

Distribution

Care FAQ

More About How-Tos

Related Plants

Plant Encyclopedia > African horned cucumber

Key Facts About African horned cucumber

Feedback

Attributes of African horned cucumber

Lifespan

Annual

Plant Type

Herb, Vine

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

Late winter, Summer, Early summer, Mid summer

Plant Height

2.5 m

Spread

2.5 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Green

Fruit Color

Green

Gray

Yellow

Orange

Red

Stem Color

Green

Leaf type

Deciduous

Ideal Temperature

20 - 38 ℃

Scientific Classification of African horned cucumber

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

African horned cucumber

Find your perfect green friends.

Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.

Distribution of African horned cucumber

Feedback

Habitat of African horned cucumber

Fences, disturbed areas

Northern Hemisphere

South Hemisphere

Distribution Map of African horned cucumber

African horned cucumber is indigenous to regions across the African continent, prominently including both arid and sub-Saharan areas. Beyond its native territories, african horned cucumber has been introduced to areas within North and South America, reflecting a broader adaptation range. Its spread to non-native regions is attributed mostly to human-mediated cultivation, suggesting a robust versatility to establish beyond its original habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Questions About African horned cucumber

Feedback

Watering

Sunlight

Temperature

What is the best way to water my African horned cucumber?

To water African horned cucumber, you can use a garden hose with a spray nozzle, a watering can, or just about any other common watering tool. Generally, African horned cucumber is not too picky about how they receive their water, as they can live off of rainwater, tap water, or filtered water. Often, you should try not to water this plant from overhead, as doing so can damage the leaves and flowers and may lead to disease as well. At times, the best method for watering this plant is to set up a drip irrigation system. These systems work well for African horned cucumber as they apply water evenly and directly to the soil. For one African horned cucumber that grows in a container, you can use a similar watering approach while changing the tools you use. To water a container-grown African horned cucumber, use a cup, watering can, or your tap to apply water directly to the soil.

What should I do if I water my African horned cucumber too much or too little?

The remedy for underwatering African horned cucumber is somewhat obvious. When you notice that your plant lacks moisture, simply begin watering it on a more regular basis. The issue of overwatering can be a much more dire situation, especially if you fail to notice it early. When your African horned cucumber is overwatered, it may contract diseases that lead to its decline and death. The best way to prevent this outcome is to choose a proper growing location, one that receives plenty of sunlight to help dry the soil and has good enough drainage to allow excess water to drain rather than pooling and causing waterlogged soils. If you overwater your African horned cucumber that lives in a pot, you may need to consider changing it to a new pot. Your previous container may not have contained soil with good drainage or may not have had sufficient drainage holes. As you repot your overwatered African horned cucumber, make sure to add loose soils and to use a pot that drains efficiently.

How often should I water my African horned cucumber?

African horned cucumber needs water regularly throughout the growing season. Beginning in spring, you should plan to water this plant about once per week. As the season presses on and grows warmer, you may need to increase your watering rate to about two to three times per week. Exceeding at this rate can be detrimental to your African horned cucumber. With that said, you should also ensure that the soil in which your African horned cucumber grows remains relatively moist but not wet, regardless of how often you must water to make that the case. Watering African horned cucumber that lives in a pot is a bit different. Generally, you'll need to increase your watering frequency, as the soil in a pot can heat up and dry out a bit faster than ground soil. As such, you should plan to water a container-grown African horned cucumber a few times per week in most cases, versus just once per week for an in-ground plant.

How much water does my African horned cucumber need?

There are a few different ways you can go about determining how much water to give to your African horned cucumber. Some gardeners choose to pick their water volume based on feeling the soil for moisture. That method suggests that you should water until you feel that the first six inches of soil have become moist. Alternatively, you can use a set measurement to determine how much to water your African horned cucumber. Typically, you should give your African horned cucumber about two gallons of water per week, depending on how hot it is and how quickly the soil becomes dry. However, following strict guidelines like that can lead to overwatering if your plant requires less than two gallons per week for whatever reason. When growing African horned cucumber in a container, you will need to use a different method to determine how much water to supply. Typically, you should give enough water to moisten all of the layers of soil that have become dry. To test if that is the case, you can simply stick your finger in the soil to feel for moisture. You can also water the soil until you notice a slight trickle of excess water exiting the drainage holes of your pot.

How can I tell if i'm watering my African horned cucumber enough?

It can be somewhat difficult to avoid overwatering your African horned cucumber. On the one hand, these plants have relatively deep roots that require you to moisten the soil weekly. On the other hand, African horned cucumber are plants that are incredibly susceptible to root rot. Along with root rot, your African horned cucumber may also experience browning as a result of overwatering. Underwatering is far less likely for your African horned cucumber as these plants can survive for a while in the absence of supplemental watering. However, if you go too long without giving this plant water, it will likely begin to wilt. You may also notice dry leaves.

How should I water my African horned cucumber through the seasons?

You can expect your African horned cucumber’s water needs to increase as the season moves on. During spring, you should water about once per week. Then, as the summer heat arrives, you will likely need to give a bit more water to your African horned cucumber, at times increasing to about three times per week. This is especially true of African horned cucumber that grow in containers, as the soil in a container is far more likely to dry out faster than ground soil when the weather is warm. In autumn, while your African horned cucumber is still in bloom, it may need a bit less water as the temperature has likely declined, and the sun is no longer as strong as it was in summer.

How should I water my African horned cucumber at different growth stages?

African horned cucumber will move through several different growth stages throughout the year, some of which may require more water than others. For example, you will probably start your African horned cucumber as a seed. While the seed germinates, you should plant to give more water than your African horned cucumber will need later in life, watering often enough to maintain consistent soil moisture. After a few weeks, your African horned cucumber will grow above the soil and may need slightly less water than at the seedling phase. Then, once this plant is mature, you can begin to use the regular watering frequency of about once per week. As flower development takes place, you may need to give slightly more water to aid the process.

What's the difference between watering African horned cucumber indoors and outdoors?

There are several reasons why most African horned cucumber grow outdoors rather than indoors. The first is that these plants typically grow to tall. The second reason is that African horned cucumber needs more daily sunlight than most indoor growing locations can provide. If you are able to provide a suitable indoor growing location, you may find that you need to give your African horned cucumber water a bit more often than you would in an outdoor growing location. Part of the reason for this is that indoor growing locations tend to be a lot drier than outdoor ones due to HVAC units. The other reason for this is that soil in containers can dry out relatively quickly as well compared to soil in the ground.

How much sunlight should African horned cucumber get per day to grow healthily?

You must expose the plants to at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. They prefer more exposure to the morning light, especially in the summer. The African horned cucumber needs full sun and more sunlight that it can get. The more light these species get, the more they can manufacture food, produce beautiful blooms, and survive.

What type of sunlight does African horned cucumber need?

The African horned cucumber grows best under full sunlight. It's best not to crowd them together so they can get exposure to the sun evenly. The leaves shouldn't be starved with sunlight. If planted in pots, try to expose the herbaceous flowers in windows with direct sun and ensure they receive full sunlight regardless of the months.

They don't tend to do well in partial or filtered light as this will not produce strong stems and healthy flowers. It's best if the African horned cucumber is always exposed to the sun.

Can sunlight hurt plants? How to protect African horned cucumber from sun and heat damage?

When the temperature rises above 90℉(32℃), the African horned cucumber can get damaged by extreme temperatures, especially if they are exposed to many hours of sun. It's always ideal for providing some shade from the light in the afternoon in the summer. It's always important to keep in mind that the sunlight in the summer is stronger than the one in the winter. Sunlight exposure is also 50% longer in the summer than in the winter.

If the African horned cucumber is too stressed with sunlight, you might want to keep them fully hydrated. Water them when the top of the soil is about 2 inches dry, and move the plants indoors if it's too hot outside. This is the case if they are planted in containers.

It can be normal for the plant leaves to wilt during the day. Generally, they can recover at night. However, when you notice that the African horned cucumber is still drooping, this means that the plant is losing water fast, and you need to water them.

Should I protect African horned cucumber from sun exposure?

The African horned cucumber does not need any protection from the sun. In fact, they love the sun, and some species are heliotropic. Plant them in south-facing gardens whenever possible so they can be exposed from morning to afternoon. While the sun can benefit them, some may experience a sunburn. You might offer protection from the afternoon and midday sun through a shade of a tree or a wall.

Growing the African horned cucumber in shady areas is impossible because the larger flowers would require a lot of energy to grow and produce. Always provide the lighting conditions and set them in an area with full sun for best results.

What will happen if African horned cucumber gets inadequate sunlight?

When the African horned cucumber does not get adequate sunlight, or they are not placed in full sun locations, it's worth noting that the photosynthetic process will slow down. A lack of sunlight will cause the stems to become more leggy since they become thin and long since they tend to seek too much sunlight. They will not bloom and produce seeds in the shade.

Inadequate sunlight will also mean that the older leaves can die, the color of the new ones is lighter than the old foliage, and the new growth is smaller than the last ones.

The African horned cucumber indeed loves the sun so much. However, they can wilt when exposed to excessive heat and ultraviolet light during the extreme summer months, so be careful. You might want to cover them with a net that has a green shade, especially in the summer, to prevent the leaves and the flowers from scorching. When they are indoors, reduce the heat with the help of a fan.

Does African horned cucumber need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

When the African horned cucumber is growing, they need more light than their mature counterparts. The younger ones should receive adequate light, but they might not be prepared for sudden full sunlight, especially if they are grown in a nursery. They can be more sensitive to the summer sun, so the lighting should be gradual and slow.

How much light does African horned cucumber need for photosynthesis?

During summer or late spring, the African horned cucumber needs 6 to 8 hours of direct light every single day. This is whether they are planted outdoors. If the African horned cucumber is planted in pots or you're growing them in the winter, they need direct fluorescent lights that help them grow better. Make sure to place them in an indoor area where they are facing south or east so they can have enough sunlight for photosynthesis.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and African horned cucumber?

When transplanting the plants, they should not be exposed to sudden sunlight. Give the African horned cucumber to grow and mature before transplanting outside. Some species of herbaceous plants can grow taller and might cast a shade on other young plants. Allow between 80 to 100 days of growing season before planting another batch to ensure that every plant receives more than enough sunlight for at least 6 hours a day.

Make sure that the African horned cucumber receives the best light possible, especially if it's planted in a nursery. These are sun-loving plants, but too much sunlight with a very hot temperature is also detrimental to their growth. Indoor lights should be replaced with natural sunlight as much as possible since these species crave this every day.

What is the optimal temperature for African horned cucumber?

For this tropical plant to thrive, you’ll want to keep them between 75℉ and 90℉ (25-32℃). Each species can handle temperatures outside of this range, but keeping it within several degrees of these limits will ensure they grow to their maximum potential.

As for its extreme temperature limits, any environment below 50℉ (10℃) or above 95℉ (35℃) will begin to hinder its growth and cause various aberrations to its leaves and stems. This is especially true with low temperatures; even a light frost can cause your tropical plants to perish. Cellular death can begin to happen at a rapid pace, with some species dying in as little as 12 to 24 hours.

Does African horned cucumber require different temperatures for different growing phases?

While African horned cucumber doesn’t require any changes in temperature to enter different growing phases, it is important to stay consistent. Wild temperature fluctuations can slow down its growth regardless of its current phase, so it's always better to keep them in a controlled environment. That optimal temperature range of 75℉ and 90℉ (25-32℃) is vital to maintain, especially staying above the lower limit. Going above 90℉(32℃) isn’t ideal, but as tropical plant it won’t suffer too much. On the other hand, going below 50℉ (10℃) (and especially 40℉/5℃) will begin to directly damage this heat-loving plant species.

Does African horned cucumber need different temperatures for different seasons?

African horned cucumber does not need different temperatures for different growing seasons. The most important step in seasonal care is to keep the environment within the optimal temperature range. That's why it's always best to keep this plant indoors. That way, you can control the temperature no matter what the climate is like outside.

Light is also important for tropical species, with all of these plants preferring a partial side level of sun exposure. This means any light they receive needs to be dappled or filtered, with bright but indirect light being the best option when growing your plants indoors. Too much direct sunlight can negatively affect your plant’s leaves, reducing its growth potential.

What are the temperature guidelines to keep your African horned cucumber healthy?

Tip #1: Don’t Leave Your Plant Near Windows in Colder Months

If you want to make sure your plant isn’t exposed to colder temperatures, you may want to keep them away from windows. In colder months like late fall and winter, even the smallest draft can leak cold air into your home through cracks in your windows. While this air usually dissipates and warms up as it travels throughout your home, any plants placed in close proximity to the window will be affected. Move your tropical plants into an area where they will still get bright but indirect light, while making sure they won’t be affected by potential drafts.

Tip #2: If You Find Dry Patches, Your Plant May Be Getting Too Much Sunlight or Heat

You may notice the leaves become white or even scorched on a sunny day. These discolorations and unusual markings usually indicate that a plant is getting too much heat or sunlight, and it may be dehydrated. Excess light and heat will dry out the soil, stopping plants from getting the moisture they need to support their cellular structure. It also slows down or stops the process of photosynthesis, further hindering growth. If ignored for too long, these dry spots can spread and eventually result in the death of your plants.

Tip #3: Avoid Frost at All Costs

Colder temperatures and frost can damage your plants by causing ice crystals or disrupt normal physiological activity. This makes it nearly impossible for water to move freely throughout plant tissue, creating a deficit of moisture in their stems and leaves. You can tell a plant has been damaged by frost if it begins to suffer from hydrosis (it will appear as though it's soaked with water.) If the problem persists, your plants may begin shriveling and turning a dark brown or black hue. After that, the plant will almost certainly die.

What is the best way to maintain the right temperature for my African horned cucumber?

The best way to maintain the right temperature range for African horned cucumber is by keeping an eye on both the climate and humidity. You’ll want to try to keep each species in a room where you have access to climate control, keeping the heat in the temperature range best mimics its natural habitat. The humidity levels will also have a direct effect on temperature, so it's important to monitor these as well. You can artificially raise the humidity of your growing space by using a humidifier or lightly misting the leaves with water.

If you intend to grow this species outside, you may find it difficult to maintain the right balance of temperature and humidity. If temperatures begin to drop or the air becomes too dry, your best option is to find room within your home and move your plant inside. An indoor growing space will allow you to control the climate more closely, helping your plant reach its full potential.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

More Info on African Horned Cucumber Growth and Care

Feedback

Basic Care Guide

Lighting

Full sun

The african horned cucumber thrives under well-irradiated surroundings, favoring conditions where it receives ample sunlight. Born in an environment where sunlight is abundant, it relies heavily on ideal radiance for its overall vigor and growth across different phases. Too much or too little sun exposure could adversely affect its well-being.

Best Sunlight Practices

Temperature

0 - 43 ℃

African horned cucumber hails from warm climates, typically flourishing in temperatures ranging from 68 to 100 °F (20 to 38 ℃). While it can tolerate slight changes, maintaining this temperature range will yield optimal growth. Seasonal adjustments might be necessary depending on your location.

Temp for Healthy Growth

Plants Related to African horned cucumber

Feedback

Corydalis

Corydalis flexuosa is a species of flowering plant in the genus Corydalis, of the family Papaveraceae. It is a shade-loving perennial originating in woodland and mountainous areas of China. Growing to 30 cm, in spring it produces masses of bright blue tubular flowers with a white throat. It is summer dormant, meaning that the foliage dies down in summer. This plant is widely cultivated. It is hardy to USDA zones 5–8. The cultivars 'Blue Panda' and 'Purple Leaf' have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Cinnamon fern

Osmundastrum cinnamomeum subsp. cinnamomeum is a fern species that inhabits bogs, swamps, and moist woodlands of eastern Asia and the Americas. The fertile spore-bearing fronds become cinnamon-colored as they mature. This plant is also known for forming large clonal colonies in suitable habitats such as swamps.

Christmas fern

A native of the Eastern part of North America, christmas fern can be found in wooded areas and streambanks. It enjoys a slightly shady habitat and, while Polystichum acrostichoides can grow in colonies, it can also be found singly. The common name of Polystichum acrostichoides is due to the fact that the evergreen fronds are often still green at Christmastime.

Cedar elm

Cedar elm (Ulmus crassifolia) is a deciduous tree native to the southern United States where it grows in the flat regions at the bottom of valleys. Cedar elm is in danger of contracting Dutch Elm disease and being harmed by the elm leaf beetle. Cedar elm can also attract monarch butterflies.

Calico kitten

Calico kitten (Crassula pellucida 'variegata') is an ornamental succulent variant. Like other succulent species, calico kitten requires infrequent watering, well-drained soil, and plentiful sunlight. Direct sunlight causes a deepening of the coloration in this species.

Butterwort

Pinguicula moranensis /pɪŋˈɡwɪkjʊlə ˌmɒrəˈnɛnsɪs/ is a perennial rosette-forming insectivorous herb native to Mexico and Guatemala. A species of butterwort, it forms summer rosettes of flat, succulent leaves up to 10 cm long, which are covered in mucilaginous (sticky) glands that attract, trap, and digest arthropod prey. Nutrients derived from the prey are used to supplement the nutrient-poor substrate that the plant grows in. In the winter the plant forms a non-carnivorous rosette of small, fleshy leaves that conserves energy while food and moisture supplies are low. Single pink, purple, or violet flowers appear twice a year on upright stalks up to 25 cm long. The species was first collected by Humboldt and Bonpland on the outskirts of Mina de Morán in the Sierra de Pachuca of the modern-day Mexican state of Hidalgo on their Latin American expedition of 1799–1804. Based on these collections, Humboldt, Bonpland and Carl Sigismund Kunth described this species in Nova Genera et Species Plantarum in 1817. The extremely variable species has been redefined at least twice since, while several new species have been segregated from it based on various geographical or morphological distinctions, although the legitimacy of some of these is still debated. P. moranensis remains the most common and most widely distributed member of the Section Orcheosanthus. It has long been cultivated for its carnivorous nature and attractive flowers, and is one of the most common butterworts in cultivation. The generic name Pinguicula is derived from the Latin pinguis (meaning "fat") due to the buttery texture of the surface of the carnivorous leaves. The specific epithet moranensis refers to its type location, Mina de Moran.

Cape jasmine

Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.

Golden pothos

The golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including "devil's ivy", because it is so hard to kill and can even grow in low light conditions. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, so it should be kept away from pets and children.

View More Plants

African horned cucumber

Cucumis metuliferus

Also known as: Horned melon, Kiwano

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.

Hardiness Zones

9 to 11

Key Facts About African horned cucumber

Feedback

Attributes of African horned cucumber

Lifespan

Annual

Plant Type

Herb, Vine

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

Late winter, Summer, Early summer, Mid summer

Plant Height

2.5 m

Spread

2.5 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Green

Fruit Color

Green

Gray

Yellow

Orange

Red

Stem Color

Green

Leaf type

Deciduous

Ideal Temperature

20 - 38 ℃

Gain more valuable plant knowledge

Explore a rich botanical encyclopedia for deeper insights

Download the App

Scientific Classification of African horned cucumber

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

African horned cucumber

Never miss a care task again!

Plant care made easier than ever with our tailor-made smart care reminder.

Download the App

Distribution of African horned cucumber

Feedback

Habitat of African horned cucumber

Fences, disturbed areas

Northern Hemisphere

South Hemisphere

Distribution Map of African horned cucumber

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Questions About African horned cucumber

Feedback

Watering

Sunlight

Temperature

What is the best way to water my African horned cucumber?