Plant Profile: Momordica charantia

Momordica charantia, commonly known as bitter melon, is a robust, tendril-climbing annual vine from the cucumber family that can reach lengths of 12 to 20 feet within a single growing season. These plants are typically cultivated in a manner similar to cucumbers. It is advisable to start seeds indoors, preferably in peat pots that break down in the soil, as seedlings tend to struggle with transplantation. Begin this process approximately four weeks before the last frost of spring, and for optimal growth, support the vines on a trellis.

Caution is advised, as the mature red fruit and seeds are toxic and should not be consumed.