Sechium edule
Family: Cucurbitaceae
Common Name: Chayote, Vegetable Pear

Very popular in its native South America, this perennial fruit grows on a strong vine and can be planted to hide unsightly structures in the garden. It produces abundant pear-shaped, pale green fruit which is generally served boiled or baked as a vegetable, although it is quite delicious stewed and made into pies. The larger root tubers are eaten like potatoes in some tropical countries.

Cultivation

Chochos have a long growing season. They need reasonably fertile soil, improved with rotted manure, and a sunny location. Weed control is essential and this can be assisted by shallow cultivation. Provide protection against snails, slugs and slaters. Grow from the sprouted fruit, spaced 2.5-3.5 m (8-11 ft) apart, with the sprouted, narrow part sitting above the soil. Chochos planted in spring bear in late summer and autumn. In frosty areas, they will be killed out at this stage. When vines die down, prune them away and new vines will appear in spring. One plant is sufficient for an average family.

Climate

Zone 10.