Growing
- Forest layer: Vine.
- Growth habit & lifespan: Extremely vigorous perennial vine, dies back after frost but regrows from a tuberous root.
- Size: Can cover 5-10m of trellis or fence in a single season.
- Site preference: Full sun, needs a sturdy structure to climb, wide soil tolerance.
- Water needs / drought tolerance: Moderate to high.
- Fruiting / flowering season: Small white flowers, followed by pear-shaped fruit.
- Propagation: A whole sprouted fruit planted directly, or division of the tuberous root.
- Harvesting technique: The fruit (mild flavour, cooked like a squash), plus the young shoots and leaves, both edible.
Permaculture Function
- Permaculture functions: Extremely productive for very little input once established, and a fast summer shade or screen over a structure.
- Wildlife value: Minor.
- Edibility / medicinal use: Yes — fruit, shoots, leaves, and the large tuberous root are all edible.
- Companion notes: Needs its own dedicated, sturdy structure. Left unmanaged it will smother neighbouring plants.
Safety & Control
- Toxicity: Not toxic.
- Control method: Prune hard after the fruiting season. A vigorous species — site and support it deliberately rather than letting it find its own way over whatever's nearby.