This strong-growing, glabrous vine, climbing by tendrils, is a native of tropical America. The date when it was introduced to Hawaii, and by whom, is not known; but in the Hilo and Hamakua districts of Hawaii this variety grows wild. Its thick leaves are oval, oblong and entire, and have a short, sharp point. The flowers are about 2½, inches across, are white, with red spots on them. The fruit is slightly oblong, 2 inches in diameter, and very regular in size and shape. When ripe, it is yellow spotted with white. It has a medium-hard shell or skin, and the edible pulp is whitish-yellow, and contains many flat, black seeds. Plate CV. |