More Information
| Botanical Name |
Cyclanthera brachystachya |
| Seeds Per Pack |
8 |
| Life Cycle |
Annual |
| Min. Time to Germinate |
14 Days |
| Max. Time to Germinate |
21 Days |
| Depth to Sow Seeds |
1/8 in. |
| When to Sow |
Indoors 4-6 weeks before last spring frost |
| Growing Height |
8-10 ft. (2.4-3 m) |
| Plant Spacing |
18-24 in. (45-60 cm) |
| Hardiness |
N/A |
| Sun Exposure |
Full Sun |
| Danger |
Seed is poisonous if ingested |
| Growth Habit |
Vines & Climbers |
| Soil pH Requirements |
6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic), 6.6 to 7.5 (neutral), 7.6 to 7.8 (mildly alkaline) |
| Days to Harvest |
80-90 |
| Propagation Methods |
From seed; direct sow after last frost, From seed; sow indoors before last frost |
| Seed Collecting |
Allow unblemished fruit to ripen; clean and dry seeds |
This is one of the most unusual fruits we grow. Though originating in South and Central America, they are also well-suited for almost all U.S. hardiness zones. When eaten raw, the small green fruits are crunchy, watery, and have a faint cucumber-like taste. When cooked, they’re much less watery and have a taste similar to green peppers. Fat Babies can be stir-fried, used in pastas, pizzas, soups, or anything really! They also make excellent pickles and get plenty of attention at the farmers’ markets!