Cranberry Gourd
Abobra tenuifolia
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Pl. 163D — Abobra tenuifolia
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IOverview
Overview
Cranberry Gourd (Abobra tenuifolia) is a perennial vine native to the northeastern and northwestern regions of Argentina and southern Brazil, as well as Uruguay. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types, including light sandy and medium soils. Known for its edible fruit, Cranberry Gourd grows up to 3.5 meters tall and is a distinctive feature of the landscape in its native range. Its hardiness spans zones 8-11, allowing it to survive in warmer climates.
Quick answers
What is Cranberry Gourd?
Cranberry Gourd (Abobra tenuifolia) is a perennial vine native to the northeastern and northwestern regions of Argentina and southern Brazil, as well as Uruguay.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cranberry Gourd thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium-textured. It requires dry to moist conditions and can grow up to 3.5 meters tall. This perennial plant is hardy in zones 8-11, making it suitable for warmer climates. For propagation, seeds should be sown directly into the ground after the last frost. Harvest the edible fruit when fully matured.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
8-11
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
3.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Cranberry Gourd for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple, sunny spot and basic soil preparation for your Cranberry Gourd.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a trellis or support structure.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in late spring after the last frost, when temperatures are consistently warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Ensure containers are at least 12 inches deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 inch deep, spaced 3-4 feet apart. Transplant seedlings when they have two true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent watering, especially during dry periods. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune vines to maintain shape and encourage fruiting. Harvest fruits when they turn bright red.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The cranberry gourd's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. It is often prepared in stews or soups, adding a unique flavor to dishes. The fruit can also be dried for later use.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native
Americas1 region
native (1)Uruguay
Broader regions
native:Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Brazil South
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 163d4313-0287-4030-9246-7ea4cc2bcc6f
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