A native of South Africa, this is a roadside weed in Western Australia. The leaves and fruit contain a toxin and so is an unwelcome alien where livestock are kept. It is a a member of the Cucumber family (Cucurbitaceae). In this photo only the fruit, which are also known as Prickly Paddy Melons or Gooseberry Gourd in the United States, are shown.

The pink flowers are Schoenia cassiniana (Pink Everlasting).

W.A. Wild Flower Society 2007 tour: Talgomine Reserve roadside 13th September 2007

Added on 20th August 2008, updated 8th December 2008, updated 21st March 2010, updated 7th Dec 2012, updated 15th August 2024