Twisty Stumper

It's growing in my garden, but it's not a native. An ID on the ants (they're a common species) for bonus points.

 

An Auricularia?

 

Nope, and not even close to the right family. Not even the right order, actually.

 

I meant Auricula (Primulaceae)

 

Cucurbita?

 

Hmm yes that does sound right! Cucumber or Marrow, hmmm

 

Marrow (or Zucchini, which is what I know it as). Points to both Dave in LA and Larry!

Below the original photo from whence the stumper was cropped.

 

Ah, all points go to Dave as I merely elaborated.