The Kiwano (Cucumis metuliferus), also known as the horned cucumber, jagged cucumber or horned melon, is a plant species from the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae) that produces exotic-looking, spiky but very tasty fruits. The Kiwano originally comes from Central and South Africa. Today, however, the main growing areas are in New Zealand and Israel, from where the fruits are exported all over the world. In our latitudes, the Kiwano can be cultivated in a greenhouse and its "hedgehog-like" fruits can be harvested on a small scale.
Note
The best time to sow kiwano (horned melon) is usually in late spring, when the danger of frost has passed and temperatures are consistently above 15°C. In most regions, this is around mid-May to early June.
If you live in a cooler climate, you can also start the seeds indoors and then plant them outdoors after the last frost. Make sure the soil is well-drained and receives plenty of sunlight. Kiwano needs plenty of heat and light to thrive.
