September 11, 2022

This is Momordica charantia

Also called Bitter Melon or Balsam Pear

It can serve as a reservoir for plant viruses

That some insects are known to bear.

Location: Paleo Hammock Conservation Area, St. Lucie County

Sources: http://charlottecountyextension.blogspot.com/2015/10/what-is-it.html

Photo and text © 2022 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

August 7, 2019

Location: Melbourne, Hundred Acre Hollows

I am an Eastern Leaf-footed Bug
Shown here sitting on Bitter Melon
I've been known to attack citrus and pecan crops
In which case, growers send me to heaven.

Sources: UF | IFAS Featured Creatures - Leaffooted Bug

Photo and text © 2018 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

August 4, 2019

Location: Melbourne, Hundred Acre Hollows

This is Momordica charantia
It's in the Cucumber family
It's an invasive exotic, it's seeds are quite toxic,
But its fruit has potential to be used medicinally.

Sources: UF | IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants - Momordica charantia

BioMed Research International - Effects of Momordica charantia L. on the Blood Rheological Properties in Diabetic Patients

Photo and text © 2018 Dee Fairbanks Simpson