Creeping-cucumber
Melothria pendula
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–96" H × 24"–120" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 16 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Creeping-cucumber is a native annual vine that produces small yellow flowers from summer through early fall, followed by tiny cucumber-like fruits. This climbing plant can reach up to 8 feet in length and works well as ground cover or trailing over structures. The delicate foliage and small fruits add interesting texture to naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Creeping-cucumber 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.
- Sprawling vine growth can appear uncontrolled
- May look weedy or untidy to traditional gardeners
- Annual nature means gaps in coverage during establishment
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during the long blooming season from June through September. Small birds may eat the tiny fruits in late summer and fall.
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 Creeping-cucumber fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.