cucumber
Cucumis sativus
Marketmore 76
About this plant
Cucumis sativus, or cucumber, is a fast-growing vine plant known for its long, green edible fruits commonly eaten fresh or pickled. It has large leaves and yellow flowers and is widely cultivated worldwide. Cucumbers are popular in salads and have a high water content, making them refreshing in warm weather.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Cucumis
- Family
- Cucurbitaceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Cucurbitales
- Plant type
- Vine
- Lifespan
- Annual
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- South Asia
- Distribution
- Cultivated worldwide in temperate and tropical regions, originally native to South Asia.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Greenhouse, Balcony
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 2–4 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18-24 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 3-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.0
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, rich in organic matter
Watering. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply and regularly, especially during hot weather, to prevent bitter fruits.
Fertilizing. Apply a balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during the growing season. Too much nitrogen can lead to more leaves than fruits, so use a fertilizer with balanced nutrients.
Cucumbers grow best in warm, sunny conditions with regular watering. They need well-draining soil and benefit from support like trellises to keep fruits off the ground. Watch for pests like aphids and powdery mildew, and provide consistent moisture to avoid bitter fruits.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Large green leaves, yellow flowers, and elongated green fruits.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Low spread
Cucumbers are safe to eat and non-toxic to humans and pets.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Cucumis sativus, commonly known as cucumber, can cause mild skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people, especially those sensitive to its sap or pollen. Symptoms may include itching or redness. To reduce exposure, wear gloves when handling the plant and wash skin thoroughly after contact.
Common problems
Common problems include powdery mildew, aphids, and fruit bitterness caused by irregular watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while too little sun slows growth.
Uses
Grown mainly for its edible fruits, cucumbers are used fresh in salads, pickled, or in beverages. They also have some traditional medicinal uses for hydration and skin care.
Notes
Prune vines to encourage airflow and reduce disease risk. Repot seedlings carefully to avoid root damage. Cucumbers are sensitive to cold and frost.