Trichosanthes pentaphylla (Red Gourd)
A plant you may see fruiting in and around Paluma at present is the Red Gourd, scientific name Trichosanthes pentaphylla. This is a vine with very conspicuous rounded, bright red fruit. The fruit grow to nearly cricket-ball size (40-70 mm x 50-60 mm). The usual fruiting season is from February to June, but sometimes there are a few late-comers (or late bloomers….!).
The distribution of this vine is from Cape York to Home Hill, south of Townsville. It is a tendril climber with both male and female plants. Leaves are compound with 3 to 5 leaflets, 40-170 mm x 22-110 mm in size and are slightly rough (resembling sandpaper) on both sides. Flowers, not particularly conspicuous, are white with 5 petals, 12-14 mm long.
The fruit, which is eaten by cassowaries, is distinguished by its dark-brown to black, 9-17 mm long seeds which are suspended in a slimy, dark green pulp.
Text & Photos by Colwyn Campbell