Origin
Fluted pumpkin with the botanical name Telfairia Occidentalis, is mainly grown in West Africa, mostly for its leafy vegetable and edible seeds. Telfairia occidentalis belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family and is native to southern Nigeria. Fluted pumpkin is used mainly for soup and herbal medicines.
Common names for the plant include:
- Fluted gourd.
- Fluted pumpkin.
- Ugwu (in the Igbo language).
- Ikong-ubong (in the Efik and Ibibio languages).
A fluted pumpkin is a perennial climbing plant found in West tropical Africa and can grow up to 15 meters long. The seeds produced by the gourd are high in protein and fat and can, therefore, contribute to a well-balanced diet. It is tolerant to drought and grown mainly for food and medicinal uses.
Nutrient Composition
They contains many essential nutrients and has been useful for many medicinal purposes. These are the nutrient composition in 100 grams of fluted pumpkin leaf:
- Calories 42
- Total fat 1.6g
- Sodium 48mg
- Potassium 2500mg
- Total Carbohydrate 7g
- Protein 3g
Preferred Botanical Name: Telfairia occidentalis
Preferred Common Name: Fluted Pumpkin
Local Common Name:
- Ibibio: Ikong Ubong
- Igbo: Ugwu
- Yoruba: Sokoyokoto
- Hausa: Kabewa
Medicinal Properties And Uses Of Fluted Pumpkin
It has several uses and medicinal benefits, which are listed below:
- It is a good source of dietary fiber, which reduces constipation and bowel movements.
- Its vitamin content helps to maintain the body’s tissues.
- It is rich in antioxidants and can help prevent cancer formation.
- It helps to balance the hormones and tissue repairs.
- It Serves as an anti-diabetic agent.
- It helps improve blood production.
- It helps improve the bones and teeth.
- It helps in treating convulsion.
- It is effective for weight loss.
- It promotes fertility.
- It can improve memory.
How To Grow Fluted Pumpkin
Below are details of how to grow fluted pumpkins.
Yield Information Of Fluted Pumpkin
It takes 90 to 100 days from planting seeds until the squash is ripe. Each fluted pumpkin pod contains between 30-50 seeds. However, the leaves used in cooking various meals can grow as many as they grow within five weeks after planting. The plant will produce seeds six months after planting.
Nursery And Transplant Requirement Of Fluted Pumpkin
You can plant fluted pumpkins on raised beds in the nursery. Though it can grow almost anywhere, the soil should be a fertile, well-drained loamy soil, and seeds should be planted in holes with depth not too deep. You can plant two seeds per hole or pot if you use a pot.
The transplant can be done once it shoots out and leaves come out. Transplant carefully to the field while retaining a large portion of the soil to reduce transplant shock. Water adequately.
Soil And Sun Requirements
They also requires well-drained and fertile loamy soil. The pH of the soil should be neutral i.e., 6.5-7. A pH meter is an instrument used to measure soil pH levels. Ensure that the land is adequately exposed to light. These two factors are crucial for the growth of your Fluted pumpkin.
Watering Requirements Of Fluted Pumpkin
Pumpkins require a lot of water, about 1″ per week. You will need to keep the soil evenly moist, but to keep water off the leaves, be sure not to use an overhead sprinkler for irrigation; instead, use a garden hose with a misting nozzle to water the mounds lightly.
Do not overwater as fluted pumpkin does not do well in water-logged areas.
Planting And Spacing Requirements Of Fluted Pumpkin
The depth of planting shouldn’t be too deep. Plant the seeds in dimensions between 15 and 25 cm deep. In a 3 inch pot, plant two seeds and cut one off if both grow. Water your seeds every day for at least two weeks. Plants will begin to germinate after 1 to 2 weeks.
Harvesting Of Fluted Pumpkin
You can harvest fluted pumpkins one month after planting. The plant can be harvested at an eight month interval. For commercial quantities, you should give a 60-day harvesting interval. The plant will produce seeds after six months.
Storage Of Fluted Pumpkin Leaves
Fluted pumpkins can be boiled or cooked with other foods like vegetables. It can be taken as juice by mashing the fresh leaves and then extracting the plant’s juice or a vegetable salad. Harvested fresh leaves can only remain fresh for just a day. However, it can be stored in an airy place that is not congested.
Storage of Fluted Pumpkin Fruits And Seeds
The seeds are usually harvested after about six months, and they can be cooked and eaten. It is removed from the pod and allowed to dry by spreading it out. The seeds can stay up to four weeks when spread out in a cool, dry place.
Disease And Pest Of Fluted Pumpkin
Fruit Rot Disease
Fungi cause rot in fruits. Its symptoms include rotting of plants and leaves wilt. It can be controlled by plant removal and planting of resistant varieties.
Leaf Eating Beetle
This is an insect that causes damage to fluted pumpkin leaves. They make holes in the leaf. It can be controlled by practicing crop rotation, spraying a jet of water on the insect, picking and killing the insects.
Conclusion
Fluted pumpkin, or Telfairia occidentalis, has an abundance of health benefits. Loaded with vitamins A and C, it supports clear vision and strengthens the immune system. Its significant calcium and phosphorus levels contribute to strong bones, while its high fiber content facilitates digestion and helps with maintaining a healthy weight. Additionally, this vegetable is an excellent source of antioxidants, making it a valuable addition to any diet.
They offers a powerful defense against oxidative stress, shielding cells and reducing the likelihood of chronic illnesses. Its anti-inflammatory potential further elevates its role in promoting overall wellness. Packed with essential nutrients, this versatile and wholesome food provides comprehensive support for multiple aspects of health, enhancing overall vitality.