Cucumber Varieties: Unusual Fruits, Vegetables, and Plants
Though often considered a staple of summer salads and pickles, the cucumber (Cucumis sativus) offers a variety of unique varieties beyond the common green cucumber. These include unusual fruits, vegetables, and even plants. This article explores some of these fascinating cucumber varieties and their unique characteristics.
Introduction to Cucumber Varieties
Cucumbers, also known as Cucumis sativus, are trailing annual plants in the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae). These popular vegetables are not only versatile and refreshing but also offer a range of unique species and cultivars. Here, we'll focus on some of the lesser-known varieties, diving into their differences and characteristics.
Unusual Fruits
Mexican Sour Gherkin (Cucumis sativus)
The Mexican Sour Gherkin, a miniature cucumber variety, stands out with its pungent and tangy flavor. Unlike traditional cucumbers, this variety has a complex taste profile that combines both sour and sweet notes. It is smaller in size, typically measuring only 2-3 inches in length, and has a spiky skin that adds an interesting texture to any dish. This cucumber variety is often used in pickling, relishes, and even as a garnish for its unique flavor profile.
Unusual Vegetables
Himalayan Star Fruit (Cucumis metuliferus)
This is a tropical cucumber variety that is often mistaken for a fruit due to its star-shaped appearance. Despite its name, it is botanically classified as a melon (Cucumis metuliferus). The star fruits are typically 4-5 inches in diameter and have a yellow or yellow-green skin that is smooth. Inside, the fruit has a white, melon-like flesh with a distinct taste that is a mix of cucumber and pineapple. These star fruits are often enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary applications, such as smoothies, salads, and desserts.
Walking Cucumber (Mendelia scabra)
This is another interesting variety of cucumber that is actually a plant (Mendelia scabra), not a vegetable. Walking cucumbers, also known as Creeping, climbing or throwing cucumbers, are named for their unique way of growth. These plants are covered with spines, similar to the prickly pear cactus, which help them 'walk' across the ground as they grow. They are cultivated for their ornamental value as well as for their edible fruits, which are smaller and less sweet than the common cucumber. Walking cucumbers are often grown for their unusual appearance and can be a fun addition to a garden or greenhouse.
Unusual Plants
Smaller Cucumber Varieties
Besides the Mexican Sour Gherkin, there are several other smaller cucumber varieties that stand out for their unique characteristics. For example, Cucumis sativus 'Bohemian' is a compact cucumber that is perfect for container gardening. It produces bite-sized cucumbers, making it ideal for pickling. Another variety, Cucumis sativus 'Cos' has a mild flavor and can be used in both cooking and pickling. These smaller varieties offer a different texture and flavor profile compared to the traditional slicing or pickling cucumbers.
Cocktail Cucumbers
Another fascinating cucumber variety is the cocktail cucumber, which is smaller and cylindrical in shape. These cucumbers are perfect for salads, garnishes, and pickling due to their compact size and clean, crunchy texture. They are also commonly used in cocktails, often sliced or used whole, to add a refreshing touch to drinks.
Conclusion
While the most common cucumbers are indeed versatile and widely used in various culinary applications, the world of cucumber varieties offers a diverse range of options. From the tangy Mexican Sour Gherkin to the unique Himalayan Star Fruit and the ornamental Walking Cucumber, these unusual fruits, vegetables, and plants provide exciting opportunities for both home gardeners and professional chefs. Each variety brings its own flavor, texture, and appearance to the table, making them worth exploring for those looking to add a touch of the unusual to their cooking and gardening routines.