Kiwano Melons

Kiwano melons, botanically classified as Cucumis metuliferus, are unique African melons belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. Kiwano melon is also referred to as a horned melon, African horned melon, horned cucumber, spiked melon, blowfish fruit, jelly melon, and hedged gourd in some regions. Additionally, the melons are marketed under the names Melano, Fruto del Paraiso, and Cuke-a-Saurus. In Africa, kiwano melons are a traditional food and medicine crop. The melons are planted as decorative cultivars outside of Africa and prized for their unique look, vibrant hue, and long shelf life.

Averaging 10 to 20 centimeters in length, kiwano melons are small to medium-sized fruits with a regular oval shape and rounded edges. The rind of the melon is thick, leathery, semi-shiny, plump, and hard, and it is covered in small, elevated spines that stick out from all sides. When mature, the rind likewise changes from green to a golden yellow-orange color, covered in dark orange dots, speckling, and mottling. The flesh is composed of several tiny, cream-colored seeds suspended in an emerald-green, jelly-like liquid beneath the skin. Each seed is normally covered in a slick covering of soft flesh and is moderately firm and crunchy. The thick, watery texture of the green liquid flesh is evocative of passion fruit.