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African horned cucumber
Scientific Name: Cucumis metuliferus
Family: Cucurbitaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Vine, Forb/herb
Duration: Annual
Other Names:
Kiwano (Cucumis metuliferus)
The Kiwano, also known as the Horned Melon or African Horned Cucumber, is an intriguing fruit with a vibrant appearance and unique flavor profile.
Common Names
- Horned Melon
- Kiwano
- African Horned Cucumber
- Jelly Melon
- Hedged Gd
- Melano
- Blowfish Fruit
- English Tomato
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cucumis metuliferus
- Family: Cucurbitaceae (gd)
- Synonyms: Several common names are used synonymously.
Considerations for Pets
- The Kiwano has a spiky exterior, presenting a potential hazard if handled carelessly.
Considerations for Children
- The Kiwano has a spiky exterior, presenting a potential hazard if handled carelessly.
Description
- The Kiwano fruit is known for its spiky yellow or green-yellow skin, which turns a bright deep orange when ripe.
- The pulp resembles lime-green Jell-O.
- It is produced on an annual vine.
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the Kalahari Desert in Southern Africa.
- Also grows naturally in Namibia and Botswana, as well as other parts of Southern and Central Africa.
- It has been exported and cultivated in other regions, including the southeastern United States and as far away as Australia and New Zealand.
Flavor Profile
- When allowed to ripen, the fruit tastes like a mix of cucumbers, kiwis, and bananas, or sometimes described as a mix of lemon and banana or a zucchini-cucumber combination with lime notes.
Quirky Facts
- In the U.S., the horned cucumber is sometimes labeled as "blowfish fruit".
- It has been cultivated for over 3,000 years.
Growing Conditions
- Hot, dry conditions are best for preventing powdery mildew.
- Grown similarly to cucumbers.