Ecballium elaterium - Spuitkomkommer (5)

Hoogte: 2 m

Type: TP / TA

Winterhard in: zones 10-12 (10C)

In NL eenjarig. Medicinaal. Augurkachtige vruchten. Deze ontploffen om hun zaden te verspreiden. Leuk voor kinderen, maar goed handen wassen!

Zaai-instructies: Kiem in 2-3 wk, 18-23C

Plant-instructies: Vruchtbare grond. Volle zon.

Waarschuwing: Hele plant is giftig

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Description:

Herbaceous vine growing from a perennial root. Rare and unusual. Native to the Mediterranean. The plant produces oversized blossoms of yellow that give way to the elongated, horned fruits. As the fruit ripens, it becomes loose at the point of attachment, and when jiggled (or if left long enough, spontaneously) the fruit dislodges from the stipe and forcefully disgorges its seed in a strong spurt. This is an unique dissemination strategy and is very fun to play with. In times gone by, the fruits wer picked in season and disgorged onto linen, which was allowed to dry in the sun. The bitter flakes of this dried juice, known as "Elatarin" were dispensed in pharmacies--a strong laxative.

Height: 2 m

Type: TP / TA

Hardy in: zones 10-12 (10 C)

Sowing instructions: Germinates in 14-21 days at 18-23 Celsius.

Planting instructions: For any rich, well drained soil in a sunny spot.