Cuayote
Ruehssia edulis
Deciduous subtropical vine that can climb 15’ or more. The stems (trunk) of the vine develop a very interesting, corky bark. In warm weather, especially spring, white flowers appear which turn into a green fruit that is globose and has very marked longitudinal ridges.
Grow in part sun (great to grow up trees or large shrubs). Moderate water with good drainage is best. Plants can tolerate light frosts but may experience some stem dieback. Don’t overwater when dormant but don’t let plant go totally bone-dry.
Most likely hosts the larvae of monarchs and queens, and various tiger and tussock moths. Flowers visited by many nectar-seeking insects.
The fruit of this species is picked green, roasted, and eaten.
The genus name of Ruehssia is in honour of Carl Andreas Rühsz (1805–1880), the German consul in Puerto Cabello, Venezuela. He was a supporter of art and science. The species name, edulis, means edible, referring to the plant’s use as food. Formerly known as Marsdenia edulis and Gonolobis edulis.
This species is native to desert scrublands, thorn scrub, and canyons
Flower details, photo by J. Fernando Pío León, iNaturalist
Trunk of the vine, which develops a corky texture. Photo by Sue Carnahan, iNaturalist
The green fruit, photo by Sue Carnahan, iNaturalist
Dried fruits, exposing seeds. Photo by Eber Barraza, iNaturalist