Gerrardanthus lobatus | The Giant Root Squash
€79,50
🔍 Morphology
Climbing caudiciform plant of the Cucurbitaceae family. It develops a large rounded, greenish, semi-subterranean tuber, which can exceed 50 cm in diameter and stores water to cope with dry periods. Long stems grow from it, initially succulent and later woody, which can reach about 6 m and climb by means of tendrils. The leaves are slightly fleshy, heart-shaped, and generally divided into 5–7 triangular lobes. It is a dioecious species: male and female flowers appear on different specimens.
📍 Distribution and habitat
Native to tropical Africa, from Nigeria to East Africa and Mozambique, with documented presence in countries such as Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It grows in seasonally dry tropical regions, on forest edges, clearings, and shrubby vegetation areas.
Cucurbitaceae family.
🌡️ Temperature
USDA zone 10b, indicative. Tolerates minimum temperatures close to 5 °C if the substrate is dry, but it must be protected from frost and prolonged cold. The exact cold resistance is poorly documented.
☀️ Lighting
Needs plenty of light to grow vigorously, although it appreciates some protection from the most intense sun during the middle hours of summer. A very bright location is recommended, with soft sun or partial shade and good ventilation. As a reference, aim for an approximate PAR DLI of 15–25 mol·m⁻²·day⁻¹, adapting it to the temperature and growth stage.
🌸 Flowering
Produces small flowers in yellowish-brown, greenish, or orange tones. The male flowers are grouped in more numerous inflorescences, while the female flowers appear solitary or in small groups. After proper pollination, the female plants develop dry, elongated, and dehiscent fruits, with seeds provided with a membranous wing.
💧 Growth cycle and watering
Seasonal dormancy in winter. During the warm season and active growth, water abundantly and let the substrate dry before watering again. When temperatures drop or the plant loses its leaves, greatly reduce the water supply. Keep the tuber protected from damp cold and avoid waterlogging, especially during dormancy.
🚀 Nutrition
During active growth, Desert CHOICE® Succulents NPK (Ca-Mg) 3-1-5 (4-1) is recommended, with high levels of bioavailable calcium and potassium. Apply moderately during watering, avoiding excess nitrogen and fertilization during dormancy.
This is an inimitable xerophyte cultivated in Madrid in a technological square pot and with the substrate activated with mycorrhizal fungi.
Gourmet black pot of 12 × 12 cm.
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