Tokiwa Tokyo Green Cucumber

This old Japanese variety, also known as “Tokyo Green,” came from China in the Meiji era, then became the dominant variety sold around Tokyo. The 1932 edition of the Oriental Seed Company noted: “The vines attain twice the length of common varieties.” They do well on fences and trellises, saving space in the gardens. Vines are almost mildew proof and well adapted to hot, dry summers. The small, 9-inch fruit with tender skin and few seeds make excellent pickles and set the standard for slicing cucumbers; buttery soft, supremely sweet, and never bitter.