vine☀️ full sun💧💧 moderate waterZone 9a – Zone 11b
Chayote is a vigorous, fast-growing tropical vine that produces pear-shaped, edible fruits and edible tubers. It requires sturdy trellising and warm conditions but yields prolifically in suitable climates.
Overview
Form
Spreading
Growth Rate
fast
Size
6–20′ tall × 6–15′ wide
Dormancy
deciduous
Tolerances & Soil
Zone 9aZone 11b
1471013
ColderWarmer
Zone range: Zone 9a to Zone 11b
Seasonality
Bloom Season
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Harvest Season
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Season of Interest
SummerFall
Climber
Vines that climb the layers above on a support.
Succession Role
early successional
Native Range
Central America (Mexico and Guatemala)
Function & Care
biomass/mulchediblewildlife benefit
Edible Parts
fruitrootleafshoot
Establishment & Care
Establishment
easy
Maintenance
moderate
Years to Bearing
1 years
Propagation
seed, cutting
Notable Cultivars
The most common cultivar is the light-green to pale fruit type, prized for tender young shoots and fruits. Dark-green and spiny varieties also exist but are less widely cultivated in temperate regions.
