Squirting cucumber
Ecballium elaterium · Cucurbitaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant squirting cucumber: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Balsam apple, Squirting cucumber
- Family
- Cucurbitaceae
- Form
- Annual or perennial herb depending on climate
- Flowering
- Summer (June to September)
- Mature size
- 30 to 60 cm tall, trailing-climbing habit
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Not hardy, frost-sensitive (warm temperate climate)
- Origin
- Mediterranean basin and North Africa
Care
Exposure
Place your balsam apple in full sun or partial shade for optimal fruiting. It tolerates heat and bright light very well. A location sheltered from strong winds is recommended.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing period to keep the soil moist, without waterlogging. Reduce watering in winter or during dormancy. This plant appreciates moderate humidity but drains well.
Soil
Prefer well-draining, light and fertile soil enriched with organic matter. Avoid overly clayey or waterlogged soils. Neutral to slightly acidic pH works perfectly.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season. Extra potassium promotes flowering and fruiting.
Pruning and training
Pinch young shoots to encourage branching. Guide trailing stems over a support if desired. Removing diseased or dead leaves improves air circulation.
Pests and diseases
The balsam apple fears powdery mildew and rot in overly humid conditions. Watch for spider mites and whiteflies. Ensure good air circulation and avoid foliar watering.
Did you know?
The balsam apple owes its scientific name 'elaterium' to its remarkable projection mechanism: at maturity, its fruits contract sharply and eject their seeds several meters away, hence its delightful nickname 'squirting cucumber'. This explosive dispersal strategy has fascinated botanists since antiquity.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- MelonCucumis melo
- CucumberCucumis sativus
- ZucchiniCucurbita pepo
- Cucurbita moschataCucurbita moschata
- Southern ginsengGynostemma pentaphyllum
- Winter squashCucurbita maxima
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.