Trichosanthes cucumeroides, commonly known as Japanese snake gourd, is a perennial vine native to a variety of habitats including forest edges, open woodlands, and grasslands across Japan, Taiwan, India, Malaysia, Vietnam, the Philippines, China, and parts of Southeast Asia and Australia. It is often confused with Trichosanthes cucumerina, but can be distinguished by its round to egg-shaped fruit, which is approximately 3 inches long. The vine produces white or pale yellow flowers that are fragrant and bloom at night, adding to its ornamental value. The fruit is initially green, turning to a bright orange-red when ripe, and is known for its unique appearance resembling a coiled snake.

Japanese snake gourd is valued for its edible fruit, which is used in a variety of culinary dishes, and for its medicinal properties, as parts of the plant are used in traditional medicine. It is a popular choice for trellises, arbors, and fences in warm climates due to its rapid growth and attractive foliage. This vine requires a warm, humid environment with full sun to part shade and well-drained soil. It is relatively easy to grow, but gardeners should be aware of potential pests such as cucumber beetles and squash bugs.CC BY-SA 4.0