Foetid Melon
Momordica foetida (?)
Observed in a pasture plot near Eldoret, Kenya, Africa. December 2012.
HERBACEOUS VINE: Herbaceous vine from a perennial, tuberous root.
Tendrils from nodes assist in clinging to supports.
FLOWERS: The flowers are whitish with pleated petals. Separate male and
female flowers.
LEAVES: Leaves are heart shaped at base and taper to a triangular point.
The margins are toothed and the upper surface is set with short, stiff hairs.
RANGE: This plant is native to many parts of Africa south of the Sahara
and has been used for food and medicinally.
FRUIT: The ellipsoid fruit as it matures develops numerous brightly
colored fleshy projections. The mature, dry fruit splits open along three seems
revealing black seeds within a red, sticky aril.
UNARMED.