Bitter Bottle Gourd
Cucurbita pepo
Last reviewed: June 2026
Bitter Bottle Gourd (Cucurbita pepo) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
12"–60" H × 24"–96" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
NH
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bitter bottle gourd is a vigorous annual vine that produces large, sprawling growth and distinctive gourd fruits. This climbing plant requires strong support structures and produces yellow flowers throughout the summer months before developing its characteristic bottle-shaped fruits.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bitter Bottle Gourd takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely large and sprawling growth habit
- Produces conspicuous gourd fruits
- Requires extensive trellising or support structures
Wildlife value
The large yellow flowers attract bees and beetles during the long blooming period from June through September. The sprawling vine structure can provide temporary shelter for small wildlife.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Bitter Bottle Gourd fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.