42.14719391, -87.78971863
Tropical Cucumber Vine
Small bright orange flowers resemble small squash blossoms are widely scattered along the long stems with tendrils of this Central American native vine with close evolutionary ties to longwing butterflies (Heliconias species). These butterflies have evolved to be able to consume pollen from this species in addition to nectar - a very rare trait among butterflies. Warm, sunny, humid conditions are needed to support the monecious flowers (male and female flowers borne on different plants). A member of the Curcurbitaceae (Gourd) family.
Soil:
Moist
Plant Shape:
Creeping
Exposure:
Full Sun
Bloom Time:
January - February
March - April
May - June
July - August
Bloom Color:
Orange
Landscape Use:
Bedding or Border
Wildlife Interest:
Attracts Butterflies
Plant Type:
Vine
Hardiness Zone:
10 - 12