In Gujarati they're called "tindora"; I don't know the scientific name. They are a quite similar to summer squash, at least in texture. I'm not fond of them but they are used in Gujarati and Maharashtrian cooking.

At last, an identity! Thanks for the information.

It's the same fruit as Bimba, mentioned in Srimad-bhagavatam. Coccinia grandis is one latin name. When ripe, the fruits turn bright red. The leaves resemble small cucumber leaves. It's also called Ivy Gourd.

Adriana,

Also known as Ivy gourd (Coccinia cordifolia Cobn.)

;)

my friend grew them a couple of years back on a warm side yard.. they did great.

Does anyone know where to get some roots for this plant? Tindora can be extremely invasive (somewhat like kudzu) in warmer climates, so most distribution is of the sterile, vegetatively reproduced varieties. I've been looking for a source but haven't found anything convenient yet. Thanks.

Geoffrey_1,

You may want to inquire here, or it looks like it's currently available at ebay.

Violet,

It appears that I am in your debt on this question as well. Thanks for the ebay tip. I don't often visit ebay but I did bid on this item and it should be coming in the mail soon.

So glad you found it Geoffrey! Let us know what you do with it!

:)

If you had seeds for this squash how would you start them. What do these seeds look like?

Here's a try at a picture, not sure it will work.

Here is a link that might be useful: {{gwi:383032}}

Beware that the fruits from a plant started from Tindli seed is not considered edible, in fact it is too bitter to the taste. You need a root from a plant that is a known bearer of edible fruit to grow your own plant.

If you plan to grow it for looks, then go ahead, but do not eat whatever fruit that plant might set.

Does anyone have Tindora/coccinia cordifolia stem/root to share...I am looking for this very desperately as my son just loves this vegetable...

Neeru

Hi,

I noticed that there are seeds for Tinda Gourd (Punjabi Tinda)(Citrullus vulgaris, var. fistulosus) offered about 2/3 of the way down this web page.

Susan

Here is a link that might be useful: Tinda Seeds

Thanks for your help. But punjabi Tinda is a different vegetable. Although I could use these seeds too!!

Neeru

I too am looking for a cutting or a plant of the TINDLI squash and will pay whatever it costs

Hi,
If anyone is interested , Alan at Troptrees is selling tindora roots.I just recieved my shipment of Tindora and beetle leaf vine from him.

Here is a link that might be useful: Link to site selling Tindora roots

Hi Thanks a lot,
I think the Florida tip is going to work for me.
I am looking forward to receiving the plant.
Milly

Willhite Seeds also carries Tinda gourd seeds mentioned by Susan, along with other vegetables from the Indian subcontinent, notably several types of gourds and eggplants. They cater to market growers, so expect big packets of seed. They specialize in melons and also have a large variety of seeds suited to southern climates, such as okra and cowpeas.

It is easier to find things in their catalog than on their website, but here is a link:

Here is a link that might be useful: Willhite Seeds

Geoffrey,

How is your plant doing?