Eden Seeds
Cucamelon Seeds
$3.90
Unit price perMelothria scabra
Cucamelon is a delightful heirloom cucurbit native to Mexico and Central America, producing masses of tiny oval fruits that look remarkably like miniature watermelons. Also known as Mouse Melon, Mexican Sour Gherkin and Sandita, the mottled green fruits reach approximately 2–4 cm long and have a crisp texture with a fresh cucumber flavour and distinctive citrusy tang.
The little fruits are excellent eaten straight from the vine, tossed whole into salads, added to salsas and stir-fries or used as a colourful garnish. Their size, crunch and natural acidity also make them particularly good for pickling whole, much like tiny gherkins.
Despite its resemblance to both cucumber and watermelon, Cucamelon belongs to the genus Melothria rather than Cucumis or Citrullus. It has a long history as a food plant in its native range and thrives in warm conditions.
Plants can be slow to establish initially but become vigorous and remarkably hardy once growing strongly. The slender climbing vines can reach approximately 3 m and benefit from a trellis or other support. Established plants tolerate periods of dry weather and generally experience relatively few pest and disease problems.
Cucamelon is perennial in warm, frost-free climates, developing underground tuberous roots from which plants may regrow. In cooler areas it is usually grown as a warm-season annual and may also self-sow where conditions are favourable.
Approximately 10 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: Spring to autumn
Subtropics: Spring to summer
Mild climates: Spring after frost to early summer
Cold climates: Start under protection in spring and transplant after all danger of frost
Planting / Sowing
Sow approximately 5–10 mm deep into trays or pots, or direct sow once the soil has warmed. Keep consistently moist during germination and be patient, as Cucamelon can be slower to establish than cucumber.
Transplant seedlings approximately 30–50 cm apart in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil. Provide a trellis, fence or other climbing support for the vigorous vines.
Maintain regular moisture during flowering and fruit production for the best yields, although established plants are reasonably drought tolerant. Harvest fruits while small, firm and crisp, generally around 2–4 cm long. Regular picking encourages continued flowering and production.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety.
Not available for WA.
Cucamelon Seeds
$3.90
Unit price per
Alert me if this item is restocked.
We often restock popular items or they may be returned by the other customers. If you would like to be notified when this happens just enter your details below.
Cucamelon Seeds
We respect your privacy and don't share your email with anybody.
Alert me if this item is restocked
Melothria scabra
Cucamelon is a delightful heirloom cucurbit native to Mexico and Central America, producing masses of tiny oval fruits that look remarkably like miniature watermelons. Also known as Mouse Melon, Mexican Sour Gherkin and Sandita, the mottled green fruits reach approximately 2–4 cm long and have a crisp texture with a fresh cucumber flavour and distinctive citrusy tang.
The little fruits are excellent eaten straight from the vine, tossed whole into salads, added to salsas and stir-fries or used as a colourful garnish. Their size, crunch and natural acidity also make them particularly good for pickling whole, much like tiny gherkins.
Despite its resemblance to both cucumber and watermelon, Cucamelon belongs to the genus Melothria rather than Cucumis or Citrullus. It has a long history as a food plant in its native range and thrives in warm conditions.
Plants can be slow to establish initially but become vigorous and remarkably hardy once growing strongly. The slender climbing vines can reach approximately 3 m and benefit from a trellis or other support. Established plants tolerate periods of dry weather and generally experience relatively few pest and disease problems.
Cucamelon is perennial in warm, frost-free climates, developing underground tuberous roots from which plants may regrow. In cooler areas it is usually grown as a warm-season annual and may also self-sow where conditions are favourable.
Approximately 10 seeds per packet
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: Spring to autumn
Subtropics: Spring to summer
Mild climates: Spring after frost to early summer
Cold climates: Start under protection in spring and transplant after all danger of frost
Planting / Sowing
Sow approximately 5–10 mm deep into trays or pots, or direct sow once the soil has warmed. Keep consistently moist during germination and be patient, as Cucamelon can be slower to establish than cucumber.
Transplant seedlings approximately 30–50 cm apart in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil. Provide a trellis, fence or other climbing support for the vigorous vines.
Maintain regular moisture during flowering and fruit production for the best yields, although established plants are reasonably drought tolerant. Harvest fruits while small, firm and crisp, generally around 2–4 cm long. Regular picking encourages continued flowering and production.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety.
Not available for WA.
DISCOVER MORE
FLOWER SEEDS WITH EDEN
Flower seeds: As fellow gardening enthusiasts we share the love for planting and nurturing our own flowers in addition to our veggie gardens. Our carefully selected range of flower seeds, available for convenient online purchase, holds a special place in our hearts. Like the endangered vegetables we've championed, these flower varieties face the risk of vanishing forever. Some of these older strains are incredibly rare, and it's a source of immense pride for us to offer and deliver these precious flower seeds Australia-wide.
