Spiny Green Fruits
Produces small, oval green fruits covered with distinctive soft spines.
Thorn Gourd Seeds for Sale
Suitable for home gardening use
Regular price
Rs. 16.99 INR
Sale price
Rs. 16.99 INR
Regular price
Tax included.
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Product description
Thorn Gourd Seeds
Thorn Gourd, scientifically known as Momordica dioica, is a perennial climbing vegetable plant valued for its small, oval-shaped green fruits covered with soft spines. Also known as Spine Gourd or Teasel Gourd, it is commonly grown in vegetable gardens and warm-climate landscapes. The tender immature fruits are used in various cooked vegetable dishes. This vigorous climbing plant grows best in warm conditions, fertile soil, and a suitable climbing support.
Spine Gourd
Perennial Vegetable
Climbing Vine
Edible Fruits
Key Features
Perennial Climbing Vine
Develops vigorous climbing stems with tendrils and underground tuberous roots.
Edible Vegetable
Tender immature fruits are commonly harvested and cooked as a vegetable.
Warm-Season Growth
Prefers warm temperatures, adequate sunlight, and fertile, well-drained soil.
Product Highlights
Scientific name Momordica dioica
Also called Teasel Gourd
Small oval green fruits
Distinctive soft fruit spines
Perennial vegetable climber
Produces male and female flowers
Tuberous underground roots
Suitable for trellis cultivation
Specifications
| Scientific Name | Momordica dioica Roxb. ex Willd. |
| Common Name | Thorn Gourd; Spine Gourd; Spiny Gourd; Teasel Gourd |
| Plant Family | Cucurbitaceae |
| Seed Type | Vegetable Seeds |
| Growth Habit | Perennial climbing vine with tuberous roots |
| Fruit Color | Green when immature; yellowish when mature |
| Fruit Shape | Small oval to ellipsoid fruits |
| Fruit Characteristics | Covered with soft, distinctive spines |
| Flower Color | Yellow |
| Plant Type | Dioecious perennial vegetable |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | Climate-dependent; requires warm growing conditions |
| Planting Season | Warm season, generally February–March in suitable Indian growing regions |
| Seed Starting | Prepare dormant seeds before sowing; follow supplier instructions |
| Germination Time | Variable due to seed dormancy; no fixed germination period |
| Germination Temperature | Warm conditions; exact temperature depends on seed preparation and growing conditions |
| Sunlight | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Soil Requirements | Fertile, organic-rich, well-drained sandy loam soil |
| Soil pH | Approximately 6.0–7.0 |
| Watering | Regular moisture during active growth; avoid waterlogging |
| Plant Spacing | Approximately 2 meters between plants, depending on the support system |
| Propagation | Seeds, tuberous roots, and stem cuttings |
| Support Requirements | Trellis, fence, or suitable climbing structure |
| Plant Uses | Home Vegetable Gardens, Trellises, and Edible Gardens |
Growing Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Seeds
Thorn Gourd seeds have natural dormancy and may germinate slowly. Freshly harvested seeds can require several months of storage before germination improves. Follow appropriate seed preparation instructions.
Thorn Gourd seeds have natural dormancy and may germinate slowly. Freshly harvested seeds can require several months of storage before germination improves. Follow appropriate seed preparation instructions.
Step 2: Prepare the Soil
Choose a sunny growing location with fertile, organic-rich, well-drained soil. Incorporate well-rotted compost to support healthy root and vine development.
Choose a sunny growing location with fertile, organic-rich, well-drained soil. Incorporate well-rotted compost to support healthy root and vine development.
Step 3: Sow the Seeds
Sow prepared seeds in suitable planting beds or containers during warm growing conditions. Maintain soil moisture and avoid excessive watering.
Sow prepared seeds in suitable planting beds or containers during warm growing conditions. Maintain soil moisture and avoid excessive watering.
Step 4: Provide Climbing Support
Install a trellis or sturdy climbing structure as the vines develop. Provide sufficient space for healthy vine growth and flowering.
Install a trellis or sturdy climbing structure as the vines develop. Provide sufficient space for healthy vine growth and flowering.
Step 5: Support Flowering and Fruit Production
Thorn Gourd produces separate male and female flowers on different plants. Both are needed for normal fruit production. Encourage pollinator activity and maintain consistent soil moisture.
Thorn Gourd produces separate male and female flowers on different plants. Both are needed for normal fruit production. Encourage pollinator activity and maintain consistent soil moisture.
Step 6: Harvest the Fruits
Harvest the fruits while they are young, tender, and green for vegetable use. Regular harvesting helps maintain a continuous supply during the productive season.
Harvest the fruits while they are young, tender, and green for vegetable use. Regular harvesting helps maintain a continuous supply during the productive season.
Grow Fresh Thorn Gourd in Your Vegetable Garden
Thorn Gourd is a productive perennial climbing vegetable known for its distinctive spiny green fruits and vigorous vine growth. Grow it along trellises, fences, or garden supports to enjoy fresh homegrown vegetables. With warm conditions, fertile soil, and proper pollination, this traditional vegetable can become a valuable addition to your edible garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find helpful answers about Thorn Gourd seed germination, pollination, and fruit harvesting.
How do you germinate Thorn Gourd seeds faster?
Thorn Gourd seeds have a hard seed coat and natural dormancy, which can delay germination. Freshly harvested seeds may require approximately 5–6 months of storage to overcome dormancy. Soaking seeds in clean water for around 24 hours before sowing may help improve water absorption. Sow under warm conditions and maintain suitable soil moisture. Germination can vary depending on seed maturity, storage, and preparation.
Why does my Thorn Gourd vine flower but not produce fruits?
Thorn Gourd is a dioecious plant, meaning male and female flowers grow on separate plants. A vine that produces only male flowers cannot develop fruits. Female flowers need pollen from male flowers for successful fruit development. Grow both male and female plants together and encourage natural pollinators or use hand pollination when necessary.
When should you harvest Thorn Gourd fruits?
Harvest Thorn Gourd fruits when they are young, tender, and green, before they become fully mature and turn yellowish. Young fruits have softer spines and are preferred for cooking. Check the vines regularly during fruiting season and use a clean cutting tool to harvest without damaging the plant.