Yellow Cucumis metuliferus Seeds—commonly known as Kiwano or Horned Melon—offer gardeners the chance to grow an exotic, visually striking fruit right at home. These seeds produce oval-shaped melons with bright golden-yellow skin covered in soft spines and a refreshing green, jelly-like interior.
Kiwano plants thrive in warm, sunny conditions and develop vigorous vines that deliver consistent yields throughout the growing season. Their drought tolerance and adaptability make them a great addition to home gardens, edible landscapes, and specialty produce beds. The fruits are enjoyed fresh, in smoothies, as unique garnishes, or as a conversation-starting addition to fruit platters.
These seeds are an excellent choice for gardeners wanting an unusual but easy-to-grow specialty crop.
Features
- Produces exotic yellow horned melon fruits
- Vigorous warm-season vines
- Non-GMO and easy to grow
- Drought-tolerant and resilient
- Unique, sweet-tart, jelly-textured interior
- Great for specialty gardens and edible landscaping
- High-yielding in warm climates
Specifications
- Common Name: Kiwano / Horned Melon
- Scientific Name: Cucumis metuliferus
- Seed Type: Vegetable fruiting seeds
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Heirloom: Yes
- Plant Type: Warm-season annual vine
- USDA Zones: 3–11 (grow as an annual)
- Season: Late Spring–Summer planting
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil
- Days to Germination: 7–14 days
- Days to Maturity: 70–90 days
- Plant Spacing: 18–24 inches
- Row Spacing: 4–6 feet
- Vine Length: 6–10 feet
- Water Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
- Fruit Size: 3–5 inches long
- Uses: Fresh eating, desserts, smoothies, fruit salads, decorative fruit
Planting Guide
- Start Indoors or Direct Sow: Begin indoors 3–4 weeks before last frost or sow outdoors after soil warms.
- Seed Depth: Plant 1/2 inch deep.
- Temperature: Prefers warm conditions above 70°F.
- Transplanting: Harden off seedlings before moving outside.
- Watering: Keep soil moist during germination; reduce watering as plants mature.
- Support: Provide space to sprawl or optional trellising.
- Harvest: Pick when skin turns bright yellow-orange and fruit feels firm.
