Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) Genus:  Momordica An edible member of Cucurbitaceae family, bitter melon has delicate growth and exotic-looking fruits. Its light-green, puckered foliage is divided into lacy lobes, and a silvery down covers both new shoot tips and emerging leaves, giving the young growth a silken sheen. Given a post to climb, bitter melon grows up, not out, using slim tendrils to carry the plant up to 6 to 8 feet in height. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Football-shaped, pale green, warty fruits ripen to brilliant orange. Over time, the outer flesh of the fruit splits at the base and curls upward to resemble a pagoda's roof. Dangling inside are seeds covered in lipstick-red pulp. Care:  Sun and moderate soil in a warm location. Provide support. Propagation:  From seed.

Overview

Height 6 ft. to 10 ft. Spread 6 in. to 12 in. Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage, Showy Fruit Bloom Time Summer Flower Color Salmon, Red, Yellow Foliage Color Variegated Foliage Uses Trellis Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Vines