Indian Cucumber
Medeola virginiana
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–18" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, CT, DE, FL and 24 more states
Indian cucumber is a delicate woodland wildflower with distinctive whorled leaves and small greenish-yellow flowers in late spring. This native perennial forms neat clumps in shaded areas and produces small dark berries that were historically used for food.
In an HOA neighborhood
Indian Cucumber takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very wild, naturalistic appearance
- Goes completely dormant in winter
- May be mistaken for weeds by neighbors
Wildlife value
The flowers attract small native bees and flies, while the berries provide food for woodland birds and small mammals.
Common questions
- How much sun does Indian Cucumber need?
- Indian Cucumber grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Indian Cucumber bloom?
- Indian Cucumber blooms in May and June.
- Where is Indian Cucumber native?
- Indian Cucumber (Medeola virginiana) is native to AL, CT, DE, FL and 24 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Indian Cucumber HOA-friendly?
- Indian Cucumber takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Indian Cucumber? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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