Raphanistrocarpus

Morphological Summary

Genus of caudiciform climbing plants in the family Cucurbitaceae, endemic mainly to Madagascar. They develop a prominent woody basal caudex that allows them to survive prolonged seasonal drought. Species produce twining stems, rough or lobed leaves, and fruits resembling small radishes (hence the name). They are of great horticultural interest for their combination of ornamental caudex and climbing habit.