Bur-cucumber
Sicyos angulatus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
60"–240" H × 24"–120" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, GA and 31 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bur-cucumber is a fast-growing annual vine that can reach up to 20 feet in length during a single growing season. It produces small white flowers from summer through early fall, followed by distinctive spiny seed pods that give the plant its common name.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bur-cucumber takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Aggressive spreading habit
- Spiky fruits create mess and stick to people/pets
- Can look weedy and unkempt
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during its extended blooming period from June through September. The seeds provide food for birds later in the season.
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 Bur-cucumber fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.