Garden Cucumber

(Cucumis sativus)

Garden Cucumber (Cucumis sativus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Cucumis sativus, commonly known as Garden Cucumber, is an annual herb or vine native to the foothills of the Himalayas, India, and China south to Thailand. It is a widely-cultivated plant characterized by its creeping vine habit, which bears cylindrical fruits commonly used as vegetables. The plant establishes its roots in the ground and prefers to grow up trellises or other supporting frames, utilizing thin, spiraling tendrils to secure itself. In the absence of such structures, it will spread across the ground. The vine’s large leaves create a canopy that helps protect the developing fruits from direct sunlight. The fruits of the Garden Cucumber are typically cylindrical, elongated, and tapered at the ends, with sizes varying greatly among cultivars. Some can grow up to 62 centimeters (24 inches) in length and 10 centimeters (4 inches) in diameter. Most cultivars have seeds and require pollination, often facilitated by bees; this is a critical step for fruit development.

Garden Cucumbers are valued for their edible fruits, which are a staple in culinary uses worldwide. They are relatively easy to grow, making them popular among home gardeners and commercial growers alike. The plant thrives in full sun and requires consistent moisture for optimal growth, with a preference for well-drained soils. While cucumbers are generally easy to maintain, they can be susceptible to common garden pests like cucumber beetles and diseases such as powdery mildew. To mitigate these issues, gardeners can employ crop rotation and use resistant cultivars. It’s also important to note that cucumbers can become invasive if not managed properly in a garden setting, as they can quickly take over space with their sprawling growth.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb, Vine
  • Height: 0.8-1.5 feet
  • Width: 3-8 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Potted Plant

Natural Habitat

native to the foothills of the Himalayas, India, and China south to Thailand

Other Names

Common Names: Cucumber, Gurke, Concombre Cultivé, Komkommer, Pepino, Gurka, 胡瓜;黃瓜, Cucumbers, Ndombo, Cohombro, Pepinillo

Scientific Names: , Cucumis sativus, Cucumis setosus, Cucumis muricatus, Cucumis sativus var. xishuangbannanesis, Cucumis sativus var. anatolicus, Cucumis sativus subsp. agrestis, Cucumis sativus subsp. gracilior, Cucumis sativus var. europaeus, Cucumis sativus var. izmir

GBIF Accepted Name: Cucumis sativus L.