West Indian Gherkin (Cucumis Anguria) Burr Cucumber, 100~vegetable Seeds, Heirloom WEST INDIAN GHERKIN (Cucumis anguria) 60-65 days - Not a true cucumber, this heirloom arrived in the U.S. from Jamaica in 1793. Originally of African origin, the large vines have leaves very similar to watermelons, while the fruits are short, plump and prickly. A very unique fruit with a distinct gherkin flavor! Great for pickling! Burr gherkins, also known as West Indian burr gherkins , are one of the old-time favorites among heirloom gardeners because of their productivity and multiple multiple uses in the kitchen  plus their pest-free maintenance. Their flavor is mild and resembles cucumbers (when young), without the strong green bitterness of some common cucumbers. You can eat them raw or pickled, or even cooked like zucchini. The West Indian gherkin is an aggressive vine with smallish leaves that are lobed like a miniature watermelon leaf. The short, three-inch, plump fruit are round, firm, and covered with blunt spines. Planting Sow the seeds two feet apart in hills or rows from late spring until mid-summer. Soil pH 5.5 to 6.5 - We recommend growing cucumbers on a trellis, for ease of harvesting and more thorough pest control. Plant 2-3 seeds every 8 to 12 inches. As the plants grow, they may need a little help at first guiding them up the trellis Harvesting Harvest the fruits when 1  2 around, dress with salt for 24 hours, and then pack them into glass jars. Cover with warm malt vinegar and add  teaspoon of dill seed. Secure jars with air-tight lids: the pickled gherkins will be ready in about two months. Our seeds/bulbs are guaranteed to be fresh but are NOT guaranteed as to results. Sorry, but there are too many variables in gardening that can impact germination. Flower seeds/bulbs are a live organism. Their germination depends on many factor including heat, cooling, sun, shade, moisture, time of sowing, etc. None of these things We can control so We can not be held responsible for them. So please do not ask for a refund, replacement or to return unused seeds/bulbs.