Bitter Melon Seeds

Momordica charantia

Bitter Melon is a vigorous climbing vine grown throughout Asia, Africa and the Caribbean for its distinctive fruits and nutritious young shoots. Producing heavily textured green fruits, this heat-loving plant thrives during the warmer months and rewards gardeners with abundant harvests when grown on a trellis or fence.

The immature fruits are traditionally harvested young and used in curries, stir-fries, soups and stuffed vegetable dishes throughout India, Sri Lanka and many parts of Southeast Asia. While known for its characteristic bitter flavour, cooking softens the bitterness and creates a unique taste valued in many traditional cuisines. The tender young shoots and leaves can also be harvested and cooked as a leafy vegetable.

Bitter Melon has a long history of use in traditional herbal systems. The fruits contain compounds that have attracted scientific interest due to their similarity to insulin and their potential role in supporting healthy blood sugar regulation.

Approximately 6 seeds per gram
Approximately 10 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: September to March
Subtropics: October to January
Mild climates: October to December
Cold climates: Spring after frost

Planting / Sowing

Sow seed 15–20 mm deep after the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures have warmed. Soaking seed overnight in warm water may improve germination. Space plants 60–90 cm apart and provide a sturdy trellis or support structure for climbing.

Grow in full sun in fertile, well-drained soil enriched with compost. Water regularly throughout the growing season and harvest fruits while young and green for the best flavour and texture. Regular picking encourages continued flowering and fruit production.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.