41 



single kind of edible Cucumis (0. acidus, Jacquin), with 

 fruits not larger than a pigeon's egg, is indigenous. In 

 South African deserts it has become spontaneously esta- 

 blished, and retained the characters of the cultivated fruit. 



Cucumis Colocynthis, L. 



(Citrullus ColocyntTiis, Schrader.) 



From the Mediterranean regions to India. An annual herb. 

 The medicinal extract of Colocynth is prepared from the 

 small gourd of this species. Active principle : Colo- 

 cyiithin. 



Cucumis Conomon, Thunberg. 



Japan. An annual. The large fruit is used for pre- 

 serves. 



Cucumis Melo, L. 



The Melon. Originally from the country about the Caspian 

 Sea. The best varieties might also be naturalized in our 

 sand-deserts, particularly on places where some moisture 

 collects. Some of the Bokhara varieties are remarkably 

 luscious and large. Apparently remunerative results have 

 been gained in Belgium from experiments to cultivate 

 Melons for sugar and treacle. The seeds, thus obtained in 

 quantity, become available for oil-pressing. The root con- 

 tains Melonemetin. 



Cucumis Momordica, Eoxburgh. 



Cultivated in India. It produces Cucumbers 2 feet long, 

 bursting slowly when ripe into several divisions. Young 

 the fruit is used like Cucumbers, aged like Melons. 



Cucumis sativus, L. 



The Cucumber. Egypt. Indicated here merely for com- 

 pleteness' sake, also because Gherkin pickling ought to 

 become a more extended local industry. 



Cucumis utilissimus, Eoxburgh. 



Mountains of Bengal. An annual like the other species. 

 Fruit of the size and shape of an ostrich's egg with the 

 flavor of Melons. These fruits will keep for several 

 months. 



