Seed Savers Exchange Cucumber, Jelly Melon (Organic)

In stock
SKU: 1350A
Regular price $4.25

Seed Savers Exchange

Cucumber, Jelly Melon (Organic)

Cucumis sativus

  • 120 days
  • Organic
  • This variety will grow well in most regions of the United States but does not tolerate cold well.
  • Fresh eating & decorative
  • Thorny oval fruits
  • Green-gold gel-filled fruits
  • Flavor like citrus or pomegranate
  • Packet of 50 Seeds

Also known as Kiwano or African Horned Cucumber, although botanically, this thorny oval fruit, filled with lots of seeds and greenish-gold gel, is not a true cucumber. Its fruits have a flavor reminiscent of pomegranate and citrus and are high in vitamin C. Jelly Melon originated in semi-arid Africa near the Kalahari Desert and is often used as a garnish or decorative fruit.

The jelly melon's tart, sometimes astringent, flavor has been compared to a watered-down banana or a combination of cucumber and zucchini. Try adding either salt or sugar to increase the flavor.

While some eat the skin, when eaten raw it is best to suck out the pulp or scoop it out with a spoon and spit out the seeds as you eat it.

Learn To Grow It

Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors in 12" diameter hills after the last frost when soil is warm. Space hills 6' apart in all directions. Can also be started indoors 2-4 weeks before the last frost for an earlier harvest. Provide support for vines to save space.

  • Direct Seed: 1" Deep
  • Seeds to Hill: 6-8 Seeds
  • Thin: To 3-4 Plants
  • Light: Full Sun