Description
Large, relatively fast growing, deciduous climber (H 4-5 m, depands as well on staking, W 2-3 m). Leaves broadly egg-shaped (12-15 cm), at first light coppery red to green, later variegated, green with large white and pink spots, coloration more remarkable in female plants. Flowers simple (3 cm), green-white, not remarkable. Dioecious plant, male and female flowers on separate plants. Flowering period: April-May. Fruits ovate (2-3 cm), green-yellow, fleshy, juicy, edible raw. Ripening time: September-October. Requires deep, humus-rich, fertile, slightly acidic soils on moderately sunny sites.