Bur Cucumber
Sicyos angulatus
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Pl. 2B42 — Sicyos angulatus
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IOverview
Overview
Bur Cucumber (Sicyos angulatus) is an annual vine native to the northeastern and central United States, ranging from Alabama to Wisconsin. Known for its light requirement of full sun and preference for moist, well-drained soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils, this plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8-11. Bur Cucumber can grow up to 8 meters tall, making it a notable presence in gardens or natural settings. Its edible parts include the fruit and leaves, which have been utilized for culinary purposes. This vine is also recognized by its distinctive bur-like fruits that attach to clothing or animal fur, aiding in seed dispersal.
Quick answers
What is Bur Cucumber?
Bur Cucumber (Sicyos angulatus) is an annual vine native to the northeastern and central United States, ranging from Alabama to Wisconsin.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Bur Cucumber thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is an annual vine that can grow up to 8 meters tall, making it a vigorous climber. Hardy in zones 8-11, this plant is native to several eastern and central U.S. states and parts of Canada. For propagation, seeds can be sown directly in the garden once the soil has warmed in spring. Ensure the soil is well-draining but consistently moist for best growth. Harvest the edible fruit and leaves throughout the season.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb, Vine
Mature size
8.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Bur Cucumber for the first time
8steps
Start with Bur Cucumber as a simple, low-maintenance vine for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a trellis or support structure.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when soil is warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with full sun. Prepare loose, well-draining soil.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep in rows 30 cm apart. Transplant seedlings when they have two true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide a trellis for support as vines grow. Water weekly, especially during dry spells.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune occasionally to encourage more fruiting and maintain plant shape.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, not providing enough support, neglecting to prune.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeaves
Edible uses: The Bur Cucumber's fruit and leaves are edible. The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked, while the leaves are best used fresh in salads or as a cooked vegetable. Both parts of the plant can also be dried for later use.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 30 native
Broader regions
native:Mississippi, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Québec, Rhode I., South Carolina, Alabama, Kansas, Masachusettes, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 2b426a1f-c97f-4410-bf2f-f855db6c7bc9
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