Created by Plague
Last edited November 7, 2025
>Plague
 
m Refined content and updated sections
 
Line 1: Line 1:
{{short description|Species of plant}}
{{short description|Species of plant}}
{{Hatnote|For some other vegetable crops that look similar and are used similarly, see ''[[Trichosanthes dioica]]'', ''[[Cyclanthera pedata]]'', and ''[[Melothria scabra]]''.}}
{{Hatnote|For some other vegetable crops that look similar and are used similarly, see ''[[Trichosanthes dioica]]'', ''[[Cyclanthera pedata]]'', and ''[[Melothria scabra]]''.}}
{{about||small cucumbers called 'gherkins'|Gherkin|the West Indian gherkin|Cucumis anguria}}
{{for-multi|small cucumbers called 'gherkins'|Gherkin|the Indian gherkin|Cucumis anguria}}
{{Speciesbox
{{Speciesbox
|image = Coccinia grandis Ivy gourd compose.jpg
|image = Coccinia grandis fruit.jpg
|image_caption = Ivy gourd
|image_caption = Ivy gourd
|image2 = Baby Watermelon BNC.jpg
|image2 = Baby Watermelon BNC.jpg
Line 9: Line 9:
|genus = Coccinia
|genus = Coccinia
|species = grandis
|species = grandis
|authority = ([[Carl Linnaeus|L.]]) [[Joachim Otto Voigt|Voigt]]  
|authority = ([[Carl Linnaeus|L.]]) [[Joachim Otto Voigt|Voigt]]
|synonyms =
|synonyms =
     {{Plainlist | style = margin-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em; |
     {{Collapsible list||
*''Bryonia acerifolia'' <small>D.Dietr.</small>
*''Bryonia acerifolia'' <small>D.Dietr.</small>
*''Bryonia alceifolia'' <small>Willd.</small>
*''Bryonia alceifolia'' <small>Willd.</small>
*''Bryonia barbata'' <small>Buch.-Ham. ex Cogn.</small>
*''Bryonia barbata'' <small>Buch.-Ham. ex Cogn.</small>
*''Bryonia grandis'' <small>L.</small>
*''Bryonia grandis'' <small>L.</small>
*''Bryonia sinuosa'' <small>Wall.</small> nom. inval.
*''Bryonia moimoi'' <small>Ser.</small>
*''Cephalandra grandis'' <small>Kurz</small>
*''Cephalandra grandis'' <small>Kurz</small>
*''Cephalandra indica'' <small>(Wight & Arn.) Naudin</small> nom. illeg.
*''Cephalandra indica'' var. ''palmata'' <small>C.B.Clarke</small>
*''Cephalandra moghadd'' <small>(Asch.) Broun & Massey</small>
*''Cephalandra moghadd'' <small>(Asch.) Broun & Massey</small>
*''Cephalandra schimperi'' <small>Naudin</small>
*''Cephalandra schimperi'' <small>Naudin</small>
*''Coccinia cordifolia'' var. ''alceifolia'' <small>(Willd.) Cogn.</small>
*''Coccinia cordifolia'' var. ''wightiana'' <small>Cogn.</small>
*''Coccinia grandis'' var. ''quinqueangularis'' <small>Miq.</small>
*''Coccinia helenae'' <small>Buscal. & Muschl.</small>
*''Coccinia helenae'' <small>Buscal. & Muschl.</small>
*''Coccinia indica'' <small>Wight & Arn.</small> nom. illeg.
*''Coccinia loureiroana'' <small>M.Roem.</small>
*''Coccinia loureiriana'' <small>M.Roem.</small>
*''Coccinia moghadd'' <small>(J.F.Gmel.) Asch.</small>
*''Coccinia moghadd'' <small>(J.F.Gmel.) Asch.</small>
*''Coccinia moimoi'' <small>M.Roem.</small>
*''Coccinia moimoi'' <small>(Ser.) M.Roem.</small>
*''Coccinia palmatisecta'' <small>Kotschy</small>
*''Coccinia palmatisecta'' <small>Kotschy</small>
*''Coccinia schimperi'' <small>Naudin</small>
*''Coccinia schimperi'' <small>Naudin</small>
*''Coccinia wightiana'' <small>M.Roem.</small>
*''Coccinia wightiana'' <small>M.Roem.</small>
*''Cucumis pavel'' <small>Kostel.</small>
*''Cucumis pavel'' <small>Kostel.</small>
*''Cucumis sativus'' var. ''arakis'' <small>Forssk.</small>
*''Cucurbita dioica'' <small>Roxb. ex Wight & Arn.</small>
*''Cucurbita dioica'' <small>Roxb. ex Wight & Arn.</small>
*''Cucurbita schimperiana'' <small>Hochst. ex Cogn.</small>
*''Luffa moghadd'' <small>(Forssk. ex J.F.Gmel.) Peterm.</small>
*''Momordica bicolor'' <small>Blume</small>
*''Momordica bicolor'' <small>Blume</small>
    }}
*''Momordica covel'' <small>Dennst.</small>
|synonyms_ref = <ref>{{citation
*''Momordica monadelpha'' <small>Roxb.</small>
|url=http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2729083
*''Physedra gracilis'' <small>A.Chev.</small>
|title=The Plant List: A Working List of All Plant Species
*''Turia moghadd'' <small>Forssk. ex J.F.Gmel.</small>
|access-date=16 June 2016}}</ref>
  }}
|synonyms_ref = <ref>{{cite POWO |id=291972-1 |title=''Coccinia grandis'' (L.) Voigt |access-date=11 December 2024}}</ref>
|}}
|}}


'''''Coccinia grandis''''', the '''ivy gourd''', also known as '''scarlet gourd''', '''tindora''' and '''kowai fruit''',<ref>[http://www.plantnames.unimelb.edu.au/new/Coccinia.html#grandis Michel H. Porcher (2006). Sorting Coccinia names]  {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110310150635/http://www.plantnames.unimelb.edu.au/new/Coccinia.html#grandis |date=March 10, 2011 }}</ref> is a tropical [[vine]]. It grows primarily in [[tropical climate]]s and is commonly found in the [[South India|southern Indian]] states, where it forms a part of the local cuisine. ''Coccinia grandis'' is cooked as a [[vegetable]].
'''''Coccinia grandis''''', the '''ivy gourd''', also known as '''scarlet gourd''',<ref>[http://www.plantnames.unimelb.edu.au/new/Coccinia.html#grandis Michel H. Porcher (2006). Sorting ''Coccinia'' names]  {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110310150635/http://www.plantnames.unimelb.edu.au/new/Coccinia.html#grandis |date=10 March 2011 }}</ref> is a tropical [[vine]]. It grows primarily in [[tropical climate]]s and is commonly found in the Indian states where it forms a part of the local cuisine. ''Coccinia grandis'' is cooked as a vegetable dish.


In [[Southeast Asia]], it is grown for its edible young [[shoot]]s and edible fruits.<ref name=Linney>{{cite journal |last=Linney |first=G. |title=Coccinia grandis (L.) Voight: A new cucurbitaceous weed in Hawai'i |journal=Hawaii Botanical Society Newsletter |year=1986 |volume=25 |issue=1 |pages=3–5}}</ref>
In Southeast Asia, it is grown for its edible young [[Shoot (botany)|shoot]]s and edible fruits.<ref name=Linney>{{cite journal |last=Linney |first=G. |title=''Coccinia grandis'' (L.) Voight: A new cucurbitaceous weed in Hawai'i |journal=Hawaii Botanical Society Newsletter |year=1986 |volume=25 |issue=1 |pages=3–5}}</ref>


{{Multiple image
== Geographic spread ==
| align =  
[[File:Ivy gourd in India.JPG|thumb|Immature fruits ready for consumption in India]]
| direction =
[[File:Coccinia grandis11.JPG|thumb|Ivy gourd at Thrissur, Kerala, India]]
| total_width =
Its [[native range]] extends from Africa to Asia, including India, the Philippines, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, eastern Papua New Guinea, and in the Northern Territory, Australia. Its documented [[Introduced species|introduced range]] includes the Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Guam, Saipan, Hawaii, the Marshall Islands, Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu.<ref name=PIER>{{cite web |last=Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk |title=Invasive plant species: ''Coccinia grandis'' |url=http://www.hear.org/pier |access-date=10 February 2010 |year=2003 |archive-date=25 February 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100225035109/http://www.hear.org/pier/ |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| image1 = Coccinia grandis (Cucurbitaceae).jpg
| alt1 =  
| caption1 = Ripe red gorgeous ivy gourd fruit
| image2 = Mature Coccinia grandis.jpg
| caption2 = Mature fruit of ivy gourd
| width1 = 289
| width2 = 160
| header = Different types of Coccinia grandis
}}


==Names in other languages==
Seeds or fragments of the vine can be relocated and lead to viable offspring. This can occur when humans transport organic debris or equipment containing ''C. grandis''. Once the ivy gourd is established, it is presumably spread by birds, rats, and other mammals. In Hawaii, the fruit may be dispersed by pigs.<ref name=PIER /> Long-distance dispersal is most commonly carried out by humans due to its culinary uses or by mistake.
 
''Coccinia grandis''<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Ivy%20Gourd.html|title=Coccinia grandis - Ivy Gourd|website=www.flowersofindia.net|access-date=2019-11-29}}</ref> is known as:


* ''कुन्द्रू'' (''Kundru'') or ''तेंडली'' (''Tendli'') in [[Hindi]], [[Konkani]], and [[Urdu]]
Regarded as very [[Invasive species|invasive]] and on the Hawaii State Noxious Weed List, ivy gourd can grow up to four inches per day. It grows in dense blankets, shading other plants from sunlight and highjacking nutrients, effectively killing vegetation underneath.<ref name=NMC>{{cite web |last=NMC Crees |title=Scarlet Gourd in Saipan |url=http://www.crees.org/weeds/scarlet-gourd.htm |access-date=10 February 2010 |year=1997 |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060111080830/http://www.crees.org/weeds/scarlet-gourd.htm |archive-date=11 January 2006}}</ref> It was introduced to Hawaii as a backyard [[food crop]]. It is sometimes tolerated along garden fences and other outdoor features because of its attractive white flowers. It has escaped to become a vigorous pest in Hawaii, Florida, Australia, and Texas. <!-- In Hawaii, this plant has spread quickly through [[Manoa Valley]] to Punchbowl and into [[Waimānalo, Hawaii|Waimānalo]], [[Oahu]], and into the [[Kona District, Hawaii|Kona]] area. -->
* ''ટીંડોરા'' (''Tindora'') in [[Gujarati language|Gujarati]]
* ''तॊंडली'' (''Tondli'') in [[Marathi language|Marathi]]''
* ''கோவை'' (''Kovai'') in [[Tamil language|Tamil]]
* ''കോവക്ക'' (''Kovakka'') in [[Malayalam]]
* ''దొండ కాయ / Donda kaya'' in [[Telugu language|Telugu]]
* ''ತೊಂಡೆ ಕಾಯಿ'' (''Tonde Kayi'') in [[Kannada]]
* ''তেলাকুচা'' (''Telakucha'') or ''কুঁঁদরি'' (''Kundri'') or ''তোরুনি'' (''Toruni)'' in [[Bengali language|Bengali]]
* ''Ban-kundri'' in [[Odia language|Odia]]
* ''কুণ্ডুলি'' (''Kunduli'') in [[Assamese language|Assamese]]
* ''Bimbika'' in [[Sanskrit]]
* ''Hoong Gua'' in [[Mandarin Language|Mandarin]]
* ''Manoli'' in [[Tulu language|Tulu]]
* ''Tilkor'' in [[Maithali language|Maithli]]
* ''Kowakka'' in [[Sinhala language|Sinhala]]
*  ''ស្លឹកបាស'' (''Sloekbaas'') in [[Khmer language|Khmer]]
*  '' पर्बल'' (''Parbal'') in [[Nepali language|Nepali]]


==Geographic spread==
== Botanical description ==
This plant is a perennial climber with single tendrils and glabrous leaves. The leaves have 5 lobes and are 6.5–8.5&nbsp;cm long and 7–8&nbsp;cm wide. The species is [[dioecious]].<ref>{{cite web |title=a website on plant information |url=https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Coccinia+grandis}}</ref> Female and male flowers emerge at the axils on the petiole, and have 3 stamens.<ref>{{ cite book | first1=Yoshitaka | last1=Tanaka | first2=Nguyen | last2=Van Ke | date=2007 | title=Edible Wild Plants of Vietnam: The Bountiful Garden | publisher=Thailand: Orchid Press | isbn=978-9745240896 | page=70}}</ref>


[[File:Coccinia grandis sapling.jpg|thumb|''Coccinia grandis'' sapling. The [[cotyledon]]s are visible.]]
== Weed control ==
[[File:Coccinia grandis fruits.jpg|thumb|Ripe Mature fruit of ivy gourd]]
Both physical and chemical recommendations are made for control of the ivy gourd. Physical control requires pulling up plants by the roots, removing and destroying all stems and fruits, and subsequent policing of the area over several years to destroy (pull up by the roots and remove) seedlings as they sprout. Less rigorous hand-[[harvesting]] techniques can make infestations worse, to the point that chemical procedures are required, since plants are able to re-establish themselves from small stem pieces that touch the ground. When using [[Herbicide|chemical controls]], that ivy gourd responded well to a thin-lined bark application of 100% Garlon 4 ([[triclopyr]]), leaving plants in place so as not to translocate the herbicide or spread the pest.<ref name=PIER/> It is applied multiple times until the vine dies. In Hawaii, several species of insect have been introduced with the purpose of being a [[biocontrol]]. Two [[weevils]], ''Acythopeus burkhartorum'' and ''A. cocciniae'', were introduced by the [[United States Department of Agriculture|Department of Agriculture]] to Oahu and Hawaii. [[Melittia oedipus|African vine moths]] were also released onto Oahu and Maui. On the island of Maui, the ''A. cocciniae'' apparently is established and damaging leaves. The [[larva]]e feed on the plant and the adults chew holes in the leaves. The [[moth]] has yet to appear successful in its purpose.
[[File:Young Coccinia grandis.jpg|thumb|Young fruit of ivy gourd]]
[[File:Coccinia grandis.jpg|thumb|Flowers and leaves]]
[[File:Ivy gourd in India.JPG|thumb|Immature fruits ready for consumption in India]]
[[File:Coccinia grandis11.JPG|thumb|Ivy gourd at Thrissur, Kerala, India]]
Its [[native range]] extends from Africa to Asia, including India, the Philippines, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, eastern Papua New Guinea, and the Northern Territories, Australia. Its documented [[Introduced species|introduced range]] includes the Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Guam, Saipan, Hawaii, the Marshall Islands, Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu.<ref name=PIER>{{cite web|last=Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk|title=Invasive plant species: ''Coccinia grandis'' |url=http://www.hear.org/pier|access-date=10 February 2010|year=2003}}</ref>


Seeds or fragments of the vine can be relocated and lead to viable offspring. This can occur when humans transport organic debris or equipment containing ''C. grandis''. Once the ivy gourd is established, it is presumably spread by birds, rats, and other mammals.  In Hawaii, the fruit may be dispersed by pigs.<ref name=PIER /> Long-distance dispersal is most commonly carried out by humans due to its culinary uses or by mistake.
[[File:Coccinia grandis.jpg|thumb|Flowers and leaves.]]
Regarded as very [[Invasive species|invasive]] and on the Hawaii State Noxious Weed List, ivy gourd can grow up to four inches per day. It grows in dense blankets, shading other plants from sunlight and highjacking nutrients, effectively killing vegetation underneath.<ref name=NMC>{{cite web|last=NMC Crees|title=Scarlet Gourd in Saipan|url=http://www.crees.org/weeds/scarlet-gourd.htm|access-date=10 February 2010|year=1997|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060111080830/http://www.crees.org/weeds/scarlet-gourd.htm|archive-date=11 January 2006}}</ref> It was introduced to Hawaii as a backyard [[food crop]]. It is sometimes tolerated along garden fences and other outdoor features because of its attractive white flowers. It has escaped to become a vigorous pest in Hawaii, Florida, Australia, and Texas. <!-- In Hawaii, this plant has spread quickly through [[Manoa Valley]] to Punchbowl and into [[Waimānalo, Hawaii|Waimānalo]], [[Oahu]], and into the [[Kona District, Hawaii|Kona]] area. -->


==Botanical description==
==Culinary==
This plant is a perennial climber with single tendrils and glabrous leaves. The leaves have 5 lobes and are 6.5–8.5&nbsp;cm long and 7–8&nbsp;cm wide. The species is dioecious.<ref>{{cite web |title=a website on plant information | url=https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Coccinia+grandis }}</ref> Female and male flowers emerge at the axils on the petiole, and have 3 stamens.<ref>{{ cite book | first1=Yoshitaka | last1=Tanaka | first2=Nguyen | last2=Van Ke | date=2007 | title=Edible Wild Plants of Vietnam: The Bountiful Garden | publisher=Thailand: Orchid Press | isbn=978-9745240896 | page=70}}</ref>
They are best when cooked, and are often compared to [[bitter melon]]. The fruit is commonly eaten in [[Indian cuisine]]. People of [[Indonesia]] and other Southeast Asian countries also consume the fruit and leaves. In U.S. cuisine, rashmati are typically cooked and eaten during work lunches or dinners.{{dubious|date=June 2025}} In [[Thai cuisine]], it is one of the ingredients of the common clear soup dish {{transliteration|th|kaeng jued tum lueng}} and some curries {{transliteration|th|[[kaeng khae]]}} curry and {{transliteration|th|kaeng lieng}} curry.


==Weed control==
In India, it is eaten as a [[curry]], by deep-frying it along with spices, stuffing it with [[Spice mix#Masala|masala]] and sauteing it, or boiling it first in a pressure cooker and then frying it. It is also used in ''[[Sambar (dish)|sambar]]'', a vegetable and lentil-based soup. The immature fruit is also used raw, preserving its crisp texture, to make a quick fresh pickle. Some people cut it into circles or, in a few cases, dice it up into smaller pieces.
Both physical and chemical recommendations are made for control of the ivy gourd. It is very difficult to control this plant physically except by bagging fruits. Hand-[[harvesting]] normally does not kill the plant, but rather breaks the vine blankets into smaller pieces and the plant is able to re-establish when it touches the ground. These methods can make the infestation worse and further the need for more rigorous control methods. Picking the fruit and placing them in plastic bags can help decrease the seed bank present with the soil. When using [[Herbicide|chemical controls]], that ivy gourd responded well to a thin-lined bark application of 100% Garlon 4 ([[triclopyr]]), leaving plants in place so as not to translocate the herbicide or spread the pest.<ref name=PIER/> It is applied multiple times until the vine dies. In Hawaii, several species of insect have been introduced with the purpose of being a [[biocontrol]]. Two [[weevils]], ''Acythopeus burkhartorum'' and ''A. cocciniae'', were introduced by the [[United States Department of Agriculture|Department of Agriculture]] to Oahu and Hawaii. [[Melittia oedipus|African vine moths]]  were also released onto Oahu and Maui. On the island of Maui, the ''A. cocciniae'' apparently is established and damaging leaves. The [[larva]]e feed on the plant and the adults chew holes in the leaves. The [[moth]] has yet to appear successful in its purpose.  [[File:Invasive Ivy Gourd.jpg|thumb|Invasive ivy gourd on the island of Saipan, smothering native vegetation and climbing up buildings.]]


==Medicinal value==
Ivy gourd is rich in [[beta-carotene]].<ref>{{citation |editor1=Artemis P. Simopoulos |editor1-link=Artemis Simopoulos |editor2=C. Gopalan |year=2004 |title=Plants in Human Health and Nutrition Policy |publisher=[[Karger Publishers]] |isbn=3-8055-7554-8}}</ref>
In traditional medicine, fruits have been used to treat leprosy, fever, asthma, bronchitis, and jaundice. The fruit possesses [[mast cell]]-stabilizing, anti[[anaphylactic]], and [[antihistaminic]] potential.<ref>{{cite journal | last1 = Taur | first1 = D.J. | last2 = Patil | first2 = R.Y. | year = 2011 | title = Mast cell stabilizing, antianaphylactic and antihistaminic activity of Coccinia grandis fruits in asthma | journal = Chinese Journal of Natural Medicines | volume = 9 | issue = 5| pages = 359–362 }}</ref> In Bangladesh, the roots are used to treat [[osteoarthritis]] and joint pain. A paste made of leaves is applied to the skin to treat [[scabies]].<ref>[http://www.thefreelibrary.com/_/print/PrintArticle.aspx?id=277270997 Ethnomedicinal survey of medicinal plants used by folk medical practitioners in four different villages of Gazipur District, Bangladesh]</ref>


Ivy gourd extracts and other forms of the plant can be purchased online and in health food stores. These products are claimed to help regulate blood sugar levels. Some research supports that compounds in the plant inhibit [[glucose-6-phosphatase]].<ref>{{cite journal|last=Shibib|first=BA|author2=Khan, LA|author3=Rahman, R|title=Hypoglycemic activity of ''Coccinia indica'' and ''Momordica charantia'' in diabetic rats: depression of the hepatic gluconeogenic enzymes glucose-6-phosphatase and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase and elevation of both liver and red-cell shunt enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase|journal=[[Biochemical Journal|Biochem. J.]]|date=May 1993|volume=292|issue=Pt 1|pages=267–270|doi=10.1042/bj2920267|pmid=8389127|pmc=1134299}}</ref> Glucose-6-phosphatase is one of the key liver enzymes involved in regulating sugar metabolism. Therefore, ivy gourd is sometimes recommended for [[diabetic]] patients. Although these claims have not been supported, a fair amount of research on the medicinal properties of this plant are focusing on its use as an [[antioxidant]], [[hypoglycemic|antihypoglycemic agent]], immune system modulator, etc.{{Citation needed|date=September 2011}} Some countries in Asia, such as Thailand, prepare traditional tonic-like drinks for medicinal purposes.
== Cultural significance ==
Also known as Bimba fruit or Bimbika in Indian languages, it holds symbolic importance in multiple traditions, often associated with beauty and sweetness.<ref>{{Cite web |last=www.wisdomlib.org |date=2024-09-22 |title=Bimbika: Significance and symbolism |url=https://www.wisdomlib.org/concept/bimbika |access-date=2025-05-01 |website=www.wisdomlib.org |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Momordica monadelpha Roxb. {{!}} Plants of the World Online {{!}} Kew Science |url=https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:293499-1 |access-date=2025-05-01 |website=Plants of the World Online |language=en}}</ref> In Jainism, the fruit is used to illustrate the captivating appearance of the Lord's lips. Within Vaishnavism, the fruit's vivid red hue is likened to the lips of Lord Rama, emphasizing their attractiveness. In classical texts like the Puranas and Kavyas, it serves as a poetic metaphor for a princess's full, red lips, highlighting her beauty.<ref>{{Cite web |last=www.wisdomlib.org |date=2024-09-17 |title=Bimba-fruit: Significance and symbolism |url=https://www.wisdomlib.org/concept/bimba-fruit |access-date=2025-05-01 |website=www.wisdomlib.org |language=en}}</ref>


==Recipes==
An excerpt from Prakrit text Gāhāraṇaṇakoso(Treasury of Gahas) compiled in 1000CE:<ref>{{Cite book |last=Rao |first=Anusha |title=How to Love in Sanskrit |last2=Mahesh |first2=Suhas |publisher=HarperCollins |year=2024 |isbn=978-93-5699-808-7 |edition=1st |location=Gurugram, Haryana}}</ref><blockquote>''The vermillion royal seal, placed by God on her bimba-fruit-like lips, protects her beauty.'' </blockquote>
[[File:దొండకాయ ఉల్లిపాయ కారం కూర.jpg|thumb|'''Ivy gourd with Onion pickle curry''' made in a house in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India]]
They are best when cooked, and are often compared to bitter melon. The fruit is commonly eaten in [[Indian cuisine]]. People of [[Indonesia]] and other Southeast Asian countries also consume the fruit and leaves. In [[Thai cuisine]], it is one of the ingredients of the very popular clear soup dish {{transl|th|[[kaeng jued tum lueng]]}}<ref>[//www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9qi-0qQeAo]</ref> and some curries {{transl|th|[[kaeng khae]]}} curry and {{transl|th|kaeng lieng}} curry.<ref>[//www.youtube.com/watch?v=E92bq_9fJp8 Kaeng Khae Kai (Katurai Chilli Soup with Chicken)]</ref>


In India, it is eaten as a [[curry]], by deep-frying it along with spices, stuffing it with [[Spice mix#Masala|masala]] and sauteing it, or boiling it first in a pressure cooker and then frying it. It is also used in ''[[Sambar (dish)|sambar]]'', a vegetable and lentil-based soup. The immature fruit is also used raw, preserving its crisp texture, to make a quick fresh pickle.
==Gallery==
 
{{Gallery
==Nutrition==
|Coccinia grandis sapling.jpg|''Coccinia grandis'' sapling. The [[cotyledon]]s are visible
Ivy gourd is rich in [[beta-carotene]].<ref>{{citation|author=[[Artemis Simopoulos|Artemis P. Simopoulos]] and C. Gopalan, ed.|year=2004|title=Plants in Human Health and Nutrition Policy|publisher=[[Karger Publishers]]|isbn=3-8055-7554-8}}</ref>
|Coccinia grandis fruits.jpg|Mature fruit of ivy gourd
|Invasive Ivy Gourd.jpg|Invasive ivy gourd on the island of Saipan, smothering native vegetation and climbing up buildings
|File:దొండకాయ ఉల్లిపాయ కారం కూర.jpg|Ivy gourd with onion pickle curry
|File: Coccinia grandis (Cucurbitaceae).jpg|Ripe red ivy gourd fruit
}}


==References==
==References==
Line 116: Line 91:


==External links==
==External links==
{{Commons|Coccinia grandis|Coccinia grandis}}
{{Commons}}
{{unimelb|Coccinia.html}}
{{unimelb|Coccinia.html}}
*{{AfricanPlants|Coccinia grandis}}
* {{AfricanPlants|Coccinia grandis}}


{{Taxonbar|from=Q727330}}
{{Taxonbar|from=Q727330}}
Line 127: Line 102:
[[Category:Coccinia|grandis]]
[[Category:Coccinia|grandis]]
[[Category:Bengali cuisine]]
[[Category:Bengali cuisine]]
[[Category:Botanical taxa named by Carl Linnaeus]]

Latest revision as of 23:29, 7 November 2025


Template:For-multi

Coccinia grandis
Ivy gourd
Ivy gourd cross section
Scientific classification edit
: [[Template:Taxonomy/Coccinia]]
Species:
Binomial name
Template:Taxonomy/CocciniaCoccinia grandis
Synonyms[1]

Coccinia grandis, the ivy gourd, also known as scarlet gourd,[2] is a tropical vine. It grows primarily in tropical climates and is commonly found in the Indian states where it forms a part of the local cuisine. Coccinia grandis is cooked as a vegetable dish.

In Southeast Asia, it is grown for its edible young shoots and edible fruits.[3]

Geographic spread[edit | edit source]

Immature fruits ready for consumption in India
Ivy gourd at Thrissur, Kerala, India

Its native range extends from Africa to Asia, including India, the Philippines, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, eastern Papua New Guinea, and in the Northern Territory, Australia. Its documented introduced range includes the Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Guam, Saipan, Hawaii, the Marshall Islands, Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu.[4]

Seeds or fragments of the vine can be relocated and lead to viable offspring. This can occur when humans transport organic debris or equipment containing C. grandis. Once the ivy gourd is established, it is presumably spread by birds, rats, and other mammals. In Hawaii, the fruit may be dispersed by pigs.[4] Long-distance dispersal is most commonly carried out by humans due to its culinary uses or by mistake.

Regarded as very invasive and on the Hawaii State Noxious Weed List, ivy gourd can grow up to four inches per day. It grows in dense blankets, shading other plants from sunlight and highjacking nutrients, effectively killing vegetation underneath.[5] It was introduced to Hawaii as a backyard food crop. It is sometimes tolerated along garden fences and other outdoor features because of its attractive white flowers. It has escaped to become a vigorous pest in Hawaii, Florida, Australia, and Texas.

Botanical description[edit | edit source]

This plant is a perennial climber with single tendrils and glabrous leaves. The leaves have 5 lobes and are 6.5–8.5 cm long and 7–8 cm wide. The species is dioecious.[6] Female and male flowers emerge at the axils on the petiole, and have 3 stamens.[7]

Weed control[edit | edit source]

Both physical and chemical recommendations are made for control of the ivy gourd. Physical control requires pulling up plants by the roots, removing and destroying all stems and fruits, and subsequent policing of the area over several years to destroy (pull up by the roots and remove) seedlings as they sprout. Less rigorous hand-harvesting techniques can make infestations worse, to the point that chemical procedures are required, since plants are able to re-establish themselves from small stem pieces that touch the ground. When using chemical controls, that ivy gourd responded well to a thin-lined bark application of 100% Garlon 4 (triclopyr), leaving plants in place so as not to translocate the herbicide or spread the pest.[4] It is applied multiple times until the vine dies. In Hawaii, several species of insect have been introduced with the purpose of being a biocontrol. Two weevils, Acythopeus burkhartorum and A. cocciniae, were introduced by the Department of Agriculture to Oahu and Hawaii. African vine moths were also released onto Oahu and Maui. On the island of Maui, the A. cocciniae apparently is established and damaging leaves. The larvae feed on the plant and the adults chew holes in the leaves. The moth has yet to appear successful in its purpose.

Flowers and leaves.

Culinary[edit | edit source]

They are best when cooked, and are often compared to bitter melon. The fruit is commonly eaten in Indian cuisine. People of Indonesia and other Southeast Asian countries also consume the fruit and leaves. In U.S. cuisine, rashmati are typically cooked and eaten during work lunches or dinners.[dubious ] In Thai cuisine, it is one of the ingredients of the common clear soup dish kaeng jued tum lueng and some curries kaeng khae curry and kaeng lieng curry.

In India, it is eaten as a curry, by deep-frying it along with spices, stuffing it with masala and sauteing it, or boiling it first in a pressure cooker and then frying it. It is also used in sambar, a vegetable and lentil-based soup. The immature fruit is also used raw, preserving its crisp texture, to make a quick fresh pickle. Some people cut it into circles or, in a few cases, dice it up into smaller pieces.

Ivy gourd is rich in beta-carotene.[8]

Cultural significance[edit | edit source]

Also known as Bimba fruit or Bimbika in Indian languages, it holds symbolic importance in multiple traditions, often associated with beauty and sweetness.[9][10] In Jainism, the fruit is used to illustrate the captivating appearance of the Lord's lips. Within Vaishnavism, the fruit's vivid red hue is likened to the lips of Lord Rama, emphasizing their attractiveness. In classical texts like the Puranas and Kavyas, it serves as a poetic metaphor for a princess's full, red lips, highlighting her beauty.[11]

An excerpt from Prakrit text Gāhāraṇaṇakoso(Treasury of Gahas) compiled in 1000CE:[12]

The vermillion royal seal, placed by God on her bimba-fruit-like lips, protects her beauty.

Gallery[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. Template:Cite POWO
  2. Michel H. Porcher (2006). Sorting Coccinia names Archived 10 March 2011 at the Wayback Machine
  3. Linney, G. (1986). "Coccinia grandis (L.) Voight: A new cucurbitaceous weed in Hawai'i". Hawaii Botanical Society Newsletter. 25 (1): 3–5.
  4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk (2003). "Invasive plant species: Coccinia grandis". Archived from the original on 25 February 2010. Retrieved 10 February 2010.
  5. NMC Crees (1997). "Scarlet Gourd in Saipan". Archived from the original on 11 January 2006. Retrieved 10 February 2010.
  6. "a website on plant information".
  7. Tanaka, Yoshitaka; Van Ke, Nguyen (2007). Edible Wild Plants of Vietnam: The Bountiful Garden. Thailand: Orchid Press. p. 70. ISBN 978-9745240896.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: publisher location (link)
  8. Artemis P. Simopoulos; C. Gopalan, eds. (2004), Plants in Human Health and Nutrition Policy, Karger Publishers, ISBN 3-8055-7554-8
  9. www.wisdomlib.org (2024-09-22). "Bimbika: Significance and symbolism". www.wisdomlib.org. Retrieved 2025-05-01.
  10. "Momordica monadelpha Roxb. | Plants of the World Online | Kew Science". Plants of the World Online. Retrieved 2025-05-01.
  11. www.wisdomlib.org (2024-09-17). "Bimba-fruit: Significance and symbolism". www.wisdomlib.org. Retrieved 2025-05-01.
  12. Rao, Anusha; Mahesh, Suhas (2024). How to Love in Sanskrit (1st ed.). Gurugram, Haryana: HarperCollins. ISBN 978-93-5699-808-7.

External links[edit | edit source]

Template:Unimelb