Sechium Species, Chayote, Cho Ko, Cho-Cho, Mirliton, Vegetable Pear
Sechiumedule 'Spiny-fruited'

Family: Cucurbitaceae (koo-ker-bih-TAY-see-ee)
Genus: Sechium (SEK-ee-um)
Species: edule (ED-yew-lee)
Cultivar: Spiny-fruited

Category
Edible Fruits and Nuts
Vegetables
Perennials
Tropicals and Tender Perennials
Vines and Climbers

Water Requirements
Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater

Sun Exposure
Full Sun
Sun to Partial Shade

Foliage
Herbaceous

Foliage Color

Height
12-15 ft. (3.6-4.7 m)

Spacing
18-24 in. (45-60 cm)

Hardiness
USDA Zone 9a: to -6.6 °C (20 °F)
USDA Zone 9b: to -3.8 °C (25 °F)
USDA Zone 10a: to -1.1 °C (30 °F)
USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F)
USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)

Where to Grow

Danger
Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling

Bloom Color
White/Near White

Bloom Characteristics

Bloom Size

Bloom Time
Late Fall/Early Winter

Other details

Soil pH requirements
6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic)
6.6 to 7.5 (neutral)
7.6 to 7.8 (mildly alkaline)

Patent Information

Propagation Methods
From seed; direct sow after last frost

Seed Collecting
Wear gloves to protect hands when handling seeds
Seed does not store well; sow as soon as possible