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Chichinda, padwal, serpent gourd, snake gourd
Trichosanthes cucumerina is a tropical or subtropical vine, its variety T. cucumerina var. anguina raised for its strikingly long fruit, used as a vegetable, medicine, and in crafting traditional Australian musical instruments known as didgeridoos. Common names of the cultivated variety include snake gourd, serpent gourd, chichinda, and padwal.[+]
Trichosanthes cucumerina, also known as the snake gourd, is a tropical vine native to Asia. In Qatar, it has been found to be naturalized in some areas, particularly in the north and central regions. Studies have reported its presence in cultivated fields, gardens, and along roadsides, where it can thrive in the country's hot and dry climate. The plant's ability to adapt to Qatar's environment is likely due to its deep root system and drought tolerance. However, its invasive potential and impact on local ecosystems in Qatar require further investigation.
Fruits of snake gourd (padwal, Trichosanthes cucumerina) in Vegetable Market, Wholesale Markets area. Doha, Qatar, April 7, 2012
Haloul St, Doha, Qatar
Flower of snake gourd (Trichosanthes cucumerina) on Al Wosail Street in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, April 8, 2015Al Wosail Street, Doha, Qatar
Close up of a flower of snake gourd (Trichosanthes cucumerina) on Al Wosail Street in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, April 8, 2015Al Wosail Street, Doha, Qatar
Flower of snake gourd (Trichosanthes cucumerina) taken from Al Wosail Street in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, April 27, 2015Al Wosail Street, Doha, QatarObservations of Trichosanthes cucumerina in Qatar reveal the presence of its fruits and flowers in various areas. Fruits were spotted in the Vegetable Market, Wholesale Markets area in Doha on April 7, 2012. Flowers were observed on Al Wosail Street in Onaiza area on multiple occasions: April 8, 2015, with a close-up taken to examine its details, and again on April 27, 2015. The repeated sightings of flowers in the same area suggest that the plant may be cultivated or has naturalized in this region. The availability of fruits in the market indicates that the plant is also being commercially sold, possibly due to its edible value. These observations highlight the presence and potential cultivation of Trichosanthes cucumerina in Qatar's urban areas.
www.catalogueoflife.org
QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.