About
Melothria scabra is a fast-growing herbaceous perennial climber, usually grown as an annual, 2.5-3m high, with double-spiralled tendrils, rough-textured green leaves, 3-7cm long with three or five lobes, small yellow flowers about 4mm across in summer, and olive-shaped fruits which are usually about 2.5cm but up to 4cm long and dark green with bands of pale green mottling, in late summer and early autumn; the fruits are edible with an acidic cucumber taste and crunchy texture.
About the genus
Melothria includes herbaceous and sometimes woody species grown for their ornamental merit. The genus is represented in gardens by selected species and cultivars suited to a range of growing conditions
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial, Conservatory Greenhouse, Fruit Edible, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClimbing
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens
Native toMexico
Care notes
CultivationSow seeds in spring and keep at 22-24°C until germination, grow on at 18-21°C or plant out in moist but well-drained soil in a sunny, sheltered position once all risk of frost has passed, and provide support such as netting; roots may be lifted and stored overwinter in just-moist compost in a frost-free place and re-planted the following spring
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 22-24°C in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free