Cucumis sativus

Cucumber, Gherkin, Timun, Garden Cucumber, Cowcumber

Description

An annual herbaceous plant, used in the food industry for its fruit, known as peponids, which have a characteristic elongated shape and a refreshing taste. Belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family, along with melons, watermelons and pumpkins, it has a creeping habit or, when supported, climbs using its characteristic tendrils. The yellow flowers appear in late spring or early summer, attracting pollinating insects such as bees and bumblebees. Moderately hardy, it requires sunny positions in well-drained soil; it is also easy to grow provided certain precautions are taken, such as regular fertilisation and watering in proportion to the plant’s needs, taking into account weather conditions.