Melon (Cucumis melo)

Family: Cucurbitaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Cucumis melo is a ANNUAL CLIMBER growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour, it is very refreshing. — Very watery but with a delicate flavour, it is very refreshing.; Rich in vitamins B and C.; The flesh of the fruit can be dried, ground into a powder and used with cereals when making bread, biscuits etc.; The size of the fruit varies widely between cultivars but is up to 10cm long and 7cm wide.

Habitat & North American Range

A weed of cultivated fields in Turkey. Probably as an escape from gardens. (Zone 9)