Also known as Kovai Fruit · Little Gourd · Pain-Cure
Ivy gourd (Coccinia grandis) is a vigorous, perennial vine native to tropical Africa and Asia, cultivated for its edible fruits and young shoots.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruiting.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but not soggy.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 20-30°C. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Ivy gourd regularly, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during cooler months or when the plant is dormant.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings, especially in well-draining potting mixes.
Prune Ivy gourd to manage its vigorous growth and maintain desired shape. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pinch back tips to encourage bushier growth.
Regular pruning also improves air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Propagate Ivy gourd primarily through stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings from healthy stems in spring or summer. Remove lower leaves and plant the cuttings in moist potting mix or water.
Roots typically form within a few weeks, after which they can be transplanted into larger pots or the ground.
Repot Ivy gourd when it becomes root-bound, typically every 1-2 years. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting is best done in spring before the active growing season begins. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Ivy Gourd (Coccinia grandis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus | Coccinia |
| Species | Coccinia grandis |
Similar in genus Coccinia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
