Serpent Melon (Cucumis melo flexuosus)

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

Cucumis melo flexuosus 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 rather like cucumber and are very refreshing when eaten raw in hot weather. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; The fruits can be more than 1 metre long.; They have a flavour rather like cucumber and are very refreshing when eaten raw in hot weather.; They can also be added to curries, cooked, preserves or pickled.

Habitat & North American Range

Derived through cultivation, it is not known in a truly wild location. (Zone 9)