Shintokiwa

Shintokiwa is a Japanese heirloom cucumber variety known for its long, slender fruits with exceptional flavour.

This cucumber is renowned for its excellent crunch and sweetness, often described as having a vibrant, flowery, and buttery profile. It is crisp, juicy and free of bitterness, offering a pleasant texture that’s ideal for fresh eating, snacking, or slicing.

The plants can have a vigorous growth habit and benefit from trellising to promote straight fruits and better airflow. The fruits are typically 23-30 cm in length, with smooth, thin skins. Pick fruits often for a better harvest.

The variety performs well in full sun and shows good resistance to bacterial wilt and cucumber mosaic virus. It should be noted that with its thin skin it is said to be susceptible to wind damage in exposed conditions. We think it might best be grown under cover, but it probably can do reasonably well in a sheltered outside spot.

We found it to be an excellent slicer that was perfect for salads or fresh eating as well as quick pickling making it a very tasty condiment.

 

Some additional information about cucumbers in Japan

• Sushi and rolls (makizushi): Sliced or julienned in cucumber rolls or as a filling in other sushi varieties.
• Bento boxes and onigirazu: Added for crunch in packed lunches or rice sandwiches.
• Donburi or rice bowls: Incorporated into seafood-topped bowls for texture contrast.
• Asazuke or light pickles: Quick-pickled cucumbers seasoned with salt, often eaten as a simple tsukemono (pickled vegetable) to accompany meals.