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handhal

Citrullus colocynthis

Not Evaluated

About

<em>Citrullus colocynthis</em>, commonly known as Colocynth, is a plant species belonging to the genus <em>Citrullus</em> within the family Cucurbitaceae, the gourd family. This species has a remarkably broad geographic distribution, with documented occurrences across Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania. Records include countries such as Madagascar in Africa, Armenia and Turkey in Asia, Bulgaria and Greece among other European nations, Canada and the United States in North America, and Australia in Oceania. Colocynth is a drought-tolerant perennial vine that typically grows in arid and semi-arid environments, including desert margins, sandy soils, and degraded lands. It produces small, round, bitter fruits historically used in traditional medicine across many cultures for their purgative properties. The species thrives in open, sunny habitats with well-drained soils. Its conservation status has not been formally assessed. As a plant, it produces energy through photosynthesis. Biological traits of this species remain poorly documented in the scientific literature. <em>Citrullus colocynthis</em> is recognized as a species of ethnobotanical and pharmacological interest.

Habitat & Distribution

Typically found in diverse terrestrial habitats from tropical forests to temperate regions.

Widely distributed across Africa (Madagascar), Asia (Armenia, Turkey), Europe (7 countries), North America (Canada, United States), and Oceania and the Pacific (Australia).

Full Taxonomy

Names in Other Languages

Spanish alhandal
French coloquinte
German Koloquinte
Portuguese colocíntida
Arabic handhal

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scientific name of handhal?
The scientific name of handhal is Citrullus colocynthis. It belongs to the genus Citrullus.
Where does handhal live?
handhal is found in Widely distributed across Africa (Madagascar), Asia (Armenia, Turkey), Europe (7 countries), North America (Canada, United States), and Oceania and the Pacific (Australia).. Countries include Armenia, Australia, Bulgaria, Canada, Greece, Hungary, Madagascar, Poland, Portugal, Spain.
What family does handhal belong to?
handhal (Citrullus colocynthis) belongs to the genus Citrullus, which is part of the taxonomic family Cucurbitaceae.
What kingdom does handhal belong to?
handhal (Citrullus colocynthis) belongs to the kingdom Plantae (نباتات).
What are the closest relatives of handhal?
The closest relatives of handhal in the genus Citrullus include Afghan-Melon.

Native Range — 13 Countries

Genus Citrullus — 2 Species

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handhal
Citrullus colocynthis
NE
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Afghan-Melon
Citrullus lanatus
NE

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