Kedrostis Africana

Kedrostis africana grows in savannas and dry woodland habitats across South Africa and Namibia, belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. Its gnarly, gray-textured caudex is distinctive and appealing to collectors who appreciate raw, rough-hewn character. Twining stems with finely lobed leaves emerge from the caudex during growth. The plant is dioecious: female plants produce small red fruits after flowering. Growth is relatively fast and the species is robust, making it one of the more manageable cucurbit caudex plants. During the growing season it extends vines vigorously. Full sun to bright partial shade with well-draining soil is appropriate. Generous watering from spring through autumn transitions to drought during winter dormancy. It has reasonable cold tolerance compared to many caudex plants. Accessible pricing and availability make it a good entry point into cucurbit caudex collecting. Its unpretentious but characterful caudex can be displayed to striking effect.

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