Achocha
Cyclanthera pedata
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Pl. 4552 — Cyclanthera pedata
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IOverview
Overview
Achocha (Cyclanthera pedata) is a perennial vine native to regions in Central and South America including Argentina Northwest, Bolivia, Brazil Northeast, Brazil Southeast, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico Southwest, and Venezuela. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist conditions with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil. It can grow up to 4.5 meters tall and is often cultivated for its edible fruit, leaves, and shoots. Achocha is hardy in zones 9-11 and is an annual plant that adds both ornamental value and culinary interest with its unique, slightly mucilaginous texture when cooked.
Quick answers
What is Achocha?
Achocha (Cyclanthera pedata) is a perennial vine native to regions in Central and South America including Argentina Northwest, Bolivia, Brazil Northeast, Brazil Southeast, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico Southwest, and Venezuela.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Achocha thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 9-11 but may be grown as an annual in cooler regions. The plant can grow up to 4.5 meters tall and produces edible fruits, leaves, and shoots. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for best growth. Propagate Achocha through seeds or cuttings.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
9-11
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
4.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Achocha for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple, sunny spot and basic soil to grow Achocha successfully.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a garden bed or large container.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with some organic matter. Ensure containers are at least 15 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 2-3 cm deep, or transplant seedlings when they have two true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist and provide light shade if temperatures are very high.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide support for vines as they grow.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune occasionally to encourage bushier growth and remove any yellowing leaves.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeavesShoots
Edible uses: The achocha plant's fruit, leaves, and shoots are edible. The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked, while the leaves and tender shoots are often used in salads or as a vegetable side dish. They can also be prepared by steaming or frying.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
14 native · 4 introduced
Distribution
14 native · 4 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 14 native· 4 introduced
Asia1 region
introduced (1)China
Americas9 regions
native (9)BoliviaColombiaCosta RicaEcuadorGuatemalaHondurasNicaraguaPeruVenezuela
Broader regions
native:Argentina Northwest, Mexico Southwest, Brazil Northeast, Brazil Southeast, Mexico Southeast
introduced:East Himalaya, Réunion
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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