Momordica tuberosa

Family: Cucurbitaceae

What it is like

A pumpkin family plant. It has a woody tuberous root. It is a climbing herb with stems that last one or more years. They are branched and have lines along them. The leaves are round or kidney shaped. They are heart shaped at the base. They have 5-7 lobes. The fruit are pear shaped or a broad long shape. They are fleshy dark green and have 8 ribs.

There are about 50 Momordica species.

Where it is found

A tropical plant.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, India

How it is used for food

The fruit are used as a vegetable. They are also preserved as sun dried chips. They are also pickled.

Edible parts

Fruits

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Athalaikai, Kadavanchi, Karchikai, Kattupaval

Synonyms

Momordica cymbalaria Fenzl. ex Naud.;