CHOKO - HOARY PEAR

(Sechium edule)  Heirloom - the oldest and original form of choko.  Perennial - annual in cooler areas.  Large, green, pear shaped fruit with soft spines and a delicate, nutty flavour.  Older variety than regular types common in the marketplace.  Typically used in pickles & chutneys.  With added sweetener makes a good substitute for apples & pears in cooked dishes. Dried vines may be used for basket weaving & roots of 3-4 year old plants may also be eaten with flavour resembling sweet potato.  Shoots & tendrils may be used to add interest to stir-fry & salads.  Harvest whole fruits when young at 4-5cm for eating raw or leave to mature until 10-15cm long.  Plant whole fruit on side until half covered with soil.  Do not fully cover as it may rot.  Protect plants from hot winds & frosts.