This species melon from India is used both as a vegetable in its immature state and a fruit when fully ripe. The 'snap' part comes from the ability of the over ripe fruits to split releasing their seeds. (But not like the exploding muskmelon you might be envisioning now.) We have been growing this species for the last three years and have made selections we believe are more productive. The plants are very floriferous and grow up to 10-15 ft. long. The flavor of the fruit is similar to a delicate muskmelon but not as sweet with much more juice. The juice is high in energy and vitamin C. This species has been in cultivation for a few thousand years and was used mostly as a vegetable. Today it has recieved interest in its ability to resist insect and diseases that effect muskmelon. Fruit ripens here in southern Michigan in August.
Scientific Name: Cucumis melo var. momordica
