Jamaican Burr Gherkin Cucumber
Cucumis anguria
Approximately 50 seeds per pack.
Germination ~ 86% Feb 2025 Packed for 2025
The Jamaican Burr Gherkin, also known as West Indian Gherkin, Burr Gherkin, or Cucumis anguria, is a unique cucumber-like fruit that originates from Africa and was later introduced to the Caribbean, Central America, and parts of the Southern U.S. It is not a true cucumber (Cucumis sativus), but it belongs to the same Cucurbitaceae family. The Jamaican Burr Gherkin is a fascinating, resilient, and underappreciated cucumber relative with both culinary and medicinal benefits. It thrives in warm climates and can be an excellent addition to home gardens, especially for those looking for a unique, heirloom crop with historical significance.
Origins & History: Native to Africa, likely brought to the Caribbean and the Americas during the transatlantic slave trade era. Widely cultivated in Jamaica, Trinidad, Barbados, and parts of South America. Has been traditionally grown for both food and medicinal purposes.
Characteristics: A fast-growing vining plant that climbs using tendrils, similar to cucumbers and melons. Produces broad, lobed, and rough in texture, resembling cucumber leaves but with deeper indentations. Flowers are small, yellow, and similar to cucumber blooms.
The fruits are small, oval-shaped (1-2 inches in length). They are covered in soft spines or burrs, giving them a unique prickly texture. Green when unripe, turning yellowish when overripe. Their flavor is mild, slightly tangy taste with a crunchy texture. Less watery than regular cucumbers. Considered more resistant to pests and diseases than common cucumbers.
Culinary & Medicinal Uses: Traditionally used in soups, stews, and curries in the Caribbean. Can be pickled, eaten raw, or cooked like zucchini. Often added to rice dishes and vegetable stir-fries. Sometimes used as a substitute for regular cucumbers in salads.
As a medicinal the Jamaican Burr Gherkin is used in folk medicine for digestive issues and detoxification. Some cultures believe it has anti-inflammatory properties.
Growing Tips: Prefers warm to hot climates (USDA Zones 9-11), but can be grown as an annual in cooler regions. Plant in well-draining soil, rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Requires full sun (at least 6-8 hours per day). Spacing: 12-18 inches apart, with 3-4 feet between rows. Companion Planting Grows well with corn, beans, and other vining plants.
Needs consistent moisture but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Mulching helps retain soil moisture. A trellis or fence helps keep fruits off the ground, improving air circulation and reducing disease risk. Mainly insect-pollinated. But if growing indoors, hand pollination may be needed.
Harvest when green and firm for the best flavor. Avoid letting fruits overripen (they become tough and seedy).
Pest & Disease Management: Avoid planting near potatoes (which can attract similar pests). Common pests include aphids, cucumber beetles, and spider mites. Resistant to most common cucumber diseases but can be affected by powdery mildew in humid conditions. Crop rotation, neem oil, and good airflow help prevent issues.
