Oriental Pickling Melon, Pickling Melon, Conomon Melon, Japanese Pickling Melon, Korean Melon, White Cucumber
Cucumis melo conomon
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Young fruits are eaten as a cucumber substitute or pickled. Mature fruits are cooked in various dishes. The seeds can be dried and roasted. It can be used as a ground cover to suppress weeds. The plant attracts pollinators.
Permapeople description
Cucumis melo conomon, commonly known as the Pickling Melon or Oriental Pickling Melon, is a variety of melon cultivated primarily for pickling. The fruits are typically small and have a mild flavor. It is commonly used in Asian cuisine, particularly in pickles and preserves.
Botanical description
Cucumis melo conomon is an annual vine belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. It features sprawling stems with tendrils for climbing. Leaves are large, lobed, and rough-textured. The fruits are typically elongated, cylindrical, and pale green to white in color, though some varieties can be yellow or striped. Flowers are yellow and monoecious. Seeds are flat, oval, and light tan.
Companion planting
Favorable companions include corn, beans, squash, and sunflowers. Avoid planting near potatoes or aromatic herbs.
Propagation methods
Seed sowing is the primary method of propagation. Seeds can be directly sown in the ground after the last frost or started indoors 4-6 weeks prior. Cuttings are also possible but less common.
History and traditions
The Oriental Pickling Melon has a long history of cultivation in East Asia, particularly in Japan, Korea, and China. It has been used in traditional cuisine and medicine. It is often pickled or used in stir-fries and soups. In some cultures, it is believed to have cooling properties.
Usage calendar
Seeds are typically sown in spring (April-May). Flowering occurs in summer (June-August). Fruits are harvested throughout the summer and early fall (July-September).