Horned Melon Seeds - Fruit Plant

Horned melon, commonly known as kiwano and botanically classified as Cucumis metuliferus, is a warm-season annual vine valued for its vigorous growth and distinctive fruit. It develops trailing stems with broad leaves and produces yellow flowers followed by spiny, orange fruits during the growing season. This plant thrives in warm climates and performs best in full sun with well-drained, fertile soil. Horned melon is commonly grown in garden beds, fields, and trellised systems, where it establishes readily from seeds under warm conditions and requires adequate space for vine expansion.

Features

• Fast-growing vine with trailing or climbing habit
• Produces spiny orange fruits after flowering
• Suitable for garden beds and trellis cultivation
• Adapted to warm climates and full sun
• Establishes easily from seeds

Specifications

• Scientific name: Cucumis metuliferus
• Common name (US): Kiwano
• Seed type / variety: Orange variety
• Growth habit: Trailing annual vine
• USDA zones: 4-11 (grown as annual)
• Planting season: Spring to early summer
• Growing season: Summer
• Sowing Season:
  • Spring: March to May
  • Early Summer: June
• Germination time and conditions: 5-10 days at 20-30°C
• Sunlight requirements: Full sun
• Soil requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil
• Watering needs: Moderate to high, consistent moisture
• Mature plant size: 2-4 meters vine length, spread varies
• Plant spacing: 60-100 cm between plants