Tropical Plant "Horned melon"
Cucumis metuliferus

Characteristics -The Horned melon is a fruit bearer originally from tropical Africa, and is being cultivated commercially in the higher altitude region of the south in Brazil. It is an annual, herbaceous, a climber, monoecious, not too vigorous, all parts are hirsute-pubescent. Leaves membranaceous, cordiform and variably lobed, 6-12 cm long. Flowers solitary, with long peduncles, yellow, unisexual, however with both sexes on the same plant (self pollinating). The fruits are cilindrical berries, greenish-yellow in color, with the surface covered in spinescent protuberences; they contain a succulent, green pulp, with a slightly sweet flavor.

Uses - The fruits are consumed mainly in natura but not widely appreciated. The seeds are also edible. They can be found in the market during the summer.

Propagation - Propagated by seeds. The should be sown in the spring.