Bitter Melon Seeds

Useful gardening information

A mainstay of local oriental produce markets, especially during the warm summer months, bitter melon is a common vegetable consumed by millions around the world -- not only in the Far East, but also in many Central and South American and Caribbean countries. In the western hemisphere, it seems to be better known as an annual ornamental vine than as a food, with lovely, deeply cut leaves and bearing pretty fruits called balsam pears that ripen to a dramatic orange red.

Its bitterness comes from the high concentration of quinine it contains, which incidentally, is the reason why it is regarded by Asians, as well as Panamanians and Colombians, as a valuable drug for preventing and treating malaria.

The vast majority of Americans who have tried bitter melon probably found the experience quite unpleasant, not something they would ever want to repeat. But really, bitter melon is a delicious vegetable -- when cooked right and when latent taste buds on the tongue are given the chance to become acquainted with the most misunderstood and maligned of the five primary flavors. Moreover, it is immensely nutritious.

Rich in iron, bitter melon has twice the beta carotene of broccoli, twice the calcium of spinach, twice the potassium of bananas, and contains vitamins C and B 1 to 3, phosphorus and good dietary fiber. It is believed to be good for the liver and has been proven by western scientists to contain insulin, act as an anti-tumor agent, and inhibit HIV-1 infection.

1A119 Common Foo Gwa

Common Foo Gwa Bitter Melon is a traditional Asian heirloom grown for its distinctive warty green fruits, exceptional nutritional value, and centuries of medicinal and culinary use. Also known as Bitter Gourd, Bitter Cucumber, or Foo Gwa, this vigorous climbing vine produces abundant harvests of elongated fruits that are harvested while green and immature for their characteristic pleasantly bitter flavor. Widely used throughout China, Southeast Asia, India, and the Caribbean, Common Foo Gwa is an essential ingredient in countless traditional recipes and an increasingly popular crop among adventurous home gardeners.

Flavor Profile

Foo Gwa has a crisp texture with a bold, pleasantly bitter flavor that mellows considerably when cooked. Younger fruits are milder and more tender, while mature fruits become increasingly bitter. Salting or blanching before cooking can reduce bitterness if desired, although many experienced cooks prefer the authentic flavor that makes this vegetable so distinctive.

Culinary Uses

Asian stir-fries
Stuffed bitter melon
Soups and broths
Curries
Steamed dishes
Egg and bitter melon stir-fry
Pickled vegetables
Herbal teas
Traditional Chinese cuisine
Indian and Southeast Asian recipes

Harvesting fruits while they are bright green and firm provides the finest texture and best culinary quality.

Nutritional Value

Common Foo Gwa is exceptionally nutritious, containing abundant vitamins C and A, folate, potassium, iron, magnesium, dietary fiber, and numerous beneficial antioxidants. It is also rich in naturally occurring phytonutrients and has been widely studied for its potential health-promoting compounds. The fruit is low in calories while providing excellent nutritional density.

Growing Information

Sow seeds after all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures have warmed above 70°F. Nicking or soaking the hard seed coat overnight may improve germination. Plant seeds ½ to 1 inch deep and provide sturdy trellises, fencing, or netting for climbing. Warm temperatures, consistent watering, and regular feeding encourage vigorous growth and continuous fruit production throughout the summer.

Harvest & Storage

Harvest fruits while they are glossy green, firm, and immature, usually 8 to 10 inches long depending on the strain. Young fruits are more tender and less bitter than mature ones. Refrigerate immediately after harvest and use within one week for best quality. Mature fruits eventually turn bright orange and split open to reveal brilliant red-coated seeds.

Quick Facts

Botanical Name	Momordica charantia
Plant Type	Annual Climbing Vine
Vine Length	8–12 feet
Fruit Length	8–12 inches
Fruit Color	Green turning Orange at Maturity
Days to Harvest	60–75 days
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Support Needed	Trellis or Fence

All seed packets listed on this page are in stock and ready to ship.