| Horned Melon | |
| Cucumis metuliferus | |
| a.k.a. Kiwano (trademarked name by New Zealand growers), African Horned Cucumber |
Bright orange, ovaloid fruit to 6-9", with numerous prominent spines. Flesh is bright green, watery, and with a slight sweetness.
Description: The horned melon is a vining annual that can be grown practically anywhere, provided a warm season. Plants can produce up to 100 fruits on a single vine. Provide support for the tendrils to grab. Leaves and stems are hairy.
Hardiness: Not frost hardy.
Growing Environment: Grow much like pumpkins or watermelons. Grow in full sun. Provide regular water.
Propagation: By seeds.
Uses: Horned melons are generally eaten raw. Cut open the ripe fruit and sprinkle with sugar, which enhances the flavor considerably. The seeds are edible.
Native Range: Native to Africa. The horned melon is now grown commercially on all continents (aside from Antarctica).