אסיף מאגר המחקר החקלאי

Evaluation of Citrullus colocynthis, a desert plant native in Israel, as a potential source of edible oil

Year:

1998

Source of publication :

Authors :

Volume :

40

Co-Authors:

Facilitators :

Link :

Abstract:

Citrulus colocynthis (wild gourd) is a desert plant of the Cucurbitaceae, naturally adapted to arid environments. It was known in biblical times as a source of seed oil and its fruits were used as an efficient laxative. Accessions were collected in Israel and evaluated as a potential oil seed crop adapted to arid zones. It was found that its oil composition is similar to safflower oil, with a total of 80-85% unsaturated fatty acids. A potential yield of oil of 250-400 1 ha-1 was calculated. The best yield was obtained during the first 4 weeks of the 10-week maturation period. Yield potential should be estimated under desert conditions in order to evaluate the plant's economic future as a crop suitable for an arid environment.

Note:

See also pp. 161-167 in the book "Combating Desertification with Plants" (2001):

https://www.springer.com/gp/book/9780306466328

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