Rytidostylis gracilis

Family: Cucurbitaceae

What it is like

An annual climbing plant. It is much-branched and climbs over shrubs. It can lie along the ground. Fruit are 2-3 cm long by 1 cm thick. There are 12-16 seeds 5-7 mm long.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. It grows in damp places. It can be from sea level to 1,400 m above sea level.

Countries/locations it is found in

Central America, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, North America, Panama, South America, Venezuela

How it is used for food

The young fruit are cooked and eaten as a vegetable. The tender tips of the vine are eaten.

Edible parts

Fruit, leaves

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Chayotillo

Synonyms

Elaterium gracile (Hook. & Arn.) Cogn.;