Overview
Citrullus lanatus 'Bengala' is a plant with a climbing or trailing vine habit in the genus Citrullus, part of the Cucurbitaceae family, with green, lobed leaves foliage. Citrullus lanatus 'Bengala' grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include edible fruit and ornamental.
About
Citrullus lanatus 'Bengala' is a cultivar of the Citrullus genus, which consists of climbing or trailing vines with green, lobed leaves. This plant thrives in full sun on a south-facing, sheltered aspect and prefers fertile, well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH. Hardy to UK zone H3, it is valued for its edible fruit as well as its ornamental qualities. Propagation is by seed, and the plant is of interest during the spring and summer seasons.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Citrullus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Citrullus lanatus 'Bengala' size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Climbing or trailing vine
- Foliage
- Green, lobed leaves
- Suggested uses
- Edible fruit, ornamental
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Citrullus lanatus 'Bengala'
- Propagation
- Seed
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to aphids, cucumber beetles
- Disease resistance
- Susceptible to powdery mildew, downy mildew
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Citrullus lanatus 'Bengala'?
Citrullus lanatus 'Bengala' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Citrullus lanatus 'Bengala' need?
Citrullus lanatus 'Bengala' grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Citrullus lanatus 'Bengala' hardy in the UK?
Citrullus lanatus 'Bengala' has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.
How do I propagate Citrullus lanatus 'Bengala'?
Seed.
