289 
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. 
{GitrulUis Oolocyntliis, Schrader.) 
Prom 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- 
cynthin. 
Cucumis Conomon, Thunberg. 
Japan. An annual. The large fruit is used for pre- 
serves. 
Cucumis Melo, P- 
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, Boxburgh. 
Cultivated in India. It produces Cucumbers 2 feet long, 
bursting sloivly -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 Grherkin pickling ought to 
become a more extended local industry. 
Cucumis utilissimus, Eoxburgh. 
Mountains of Bengal. An annual like the other species. 
Pruit of the size and shape of an ostrich’s egg -with the 
flavor of Melons. These fruits will keep for several 
months. 
