Raphidiocystis (?)

possible Raphidiocystis from Mombasa, Kenya, photo © by Michael Plagens

Photographed in the upper zone of sandy beach habitat near Mombasa, Kenya. January 2012.

The elypsoid fruits are densely covered with stiff bristles that turn reddish brown as the fruit matures. Fruits are about 4 cm long.

The plant grows as a twining vine with tendrils that secure its ascent into and over other plants. The flowers are bright yellow and about 1 cm in diameter.

bristled cucumber from Mombasa photo © Michael Plagens - bristled cucumber from Mombasa photo © Michael Plagens - close-up of tendril photo © Michael Plagens

Cucurbitaceae -- Gourd Family

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Kenya Natural History

Copyright Michael J. Plagens, Created on 05 Sept. 2012.