Oriental Melons

Cindy Garner
17 min readSep 13, 2024

Get ready to take a bite of something truly special! In this article, we're diving into the world of Oriental Melon - a unique and delectable fruit that's a must-try for anyone looking to explore new flavors.

We've rounded up some of the best Oriental Melons on the market, so sit back, relax, and let us introduce you to this exciting fruit. From its sweet and juicy taste to its vibrant colors, you're in for a treat!

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Reviews

Halona Oriental Melon Seeds

Halona Oriental Melon Seeds | Image

The Halona Melon Seed offers a delightful experience with its 3 grams of unique seed content. This seed's variety is known for its ability to grow in about 72 days, showcasing a bright orange flesh and a flavorful taste. The fruit itself is deeply ribbed, netted, and has a globe-shaped appearance, making it a great addition to your garden.

With a plant spacing of about 3-4 inches and a row spacing of 5-6 inches, you can plant these seeds with ease. Just make sure to maintain a certain soil temperature and depth, as well as proper fertilization to ensure successful germination and transplantation.

Although germination might require some patience, with an approximate 80% minimum success rate, you'll surely find these seeds worth the wait.

Persian Heritage Melon: A Flavorful Rare Find

Persian Heritage Melon: A Flavorful Rare Find | Image

Experience the tantalizing taste and rich flavors of the Small Persian Melon seeds. A delightful, ancient fruity gem, they have been a favored choice for centuries due to their honey sweet texture and taste.

These seeds produce a fruity delight, which is considered the granddaddy of modern cantaloupes. However, over the years, this Persian heirloom has become quite rare. Keep these melon seeds in a cool, dry place, and they'll sprout in about 7-14 days, with sunshine as their light source.

Be prepared for these plants to prefer slightly sandy, rich soil, and avoid over watering to maintain the perfect fruiting environment. Note, these seeds aren't frost hardy, they should also be planted in a warm environment, with ideal temperature ranging from 75 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Oriental Melon Seeds: Non-GMO, Golden Yellow Variety

Oriental Melon Seeds: Non-GMO, Golden Yellow Variety | Image

Growing Korean Dae Jang Geum Melon turned out to be an exciting experience - a traditional variety, it offers a fresh twist for those familiar with summer melons. It's a non-GMO option, always nice to know. The melon has a golden yellow skin and is quite heavy, weighing more than 1.5 lbs. With 65 days to maturation, this isn't a quick crop, but worth the wait. It's sweet and crisp, unlike any other cucumis melo variety I've tried. I sowed it in late spring, following the recommended sunny, warm location. It's been worth the effort. But oh, the training! Hilling and row planting was time consuming.

Despite a few hurdles in the process, I've come to appreciate this unique melon. Its harvest window is quite late, but the sweetness and crispness make it stand out from others. It does best with a vertical support for better air circulation. Overall, it's a delightful addition to the garden, despite the labour involved in its cultivation.

Summer Kiss Melon: Golden Rind, Creamy Flesh, Perfect for Salads and Snacks

Summer Kiss Melon: Golden Rind, Creamy Flesh, Perfect for Salads and Snacks | Image

I recently tried the Summer Kiss Melon on a warm summer day, and it was a game changer. The golden rind with its creamy green flesh was a delight to encounter. The subtle sweetness of this melon made it perfect for a quick snack, adding that burst of flavor in a summer brunch with friends or family.

One of the features that stood out to me was its versatility! It's excellent as an ingredient in salads, can be transformed into refreshing popsicles on hot days or even wrapped in prosciutto as an appetizer. I also learned that it pairs beautifully with feta cheese and salty meats.

However, despite its taste and texture, one thing I noticed is that the Summer Kiss Melon seemed to be difficult to find again. But once I tried it, it had become my go-to choice for a summer melon. I recommend keeping a lookout for this delicious melon and make it a part of your summer treats.

Sprawling Oriental Melon Plant (Tigger) - Drought Tolerant, Delicious Fruit Melons for Garden Enhancement

Sprawling Oriental Melon Plant (Tigger) — Drought Tolerant, Delicious Fruit Melons for Garden Enhancement | Image

I recently tried growing the CHUXAY Garden Tigger Asian Melon in my small backyard, and I must say, it was quite the experience. I planted the seeds in a 12-inch diameter hill after the danger of frost had passed and the soil had warmed up. It took 4-10 days for the seeds to germinate, and soon enough, the plants started sprouting.

The Tigger Asian Melon is an ornamental fruit that has a vibrant yellow color with brilliant fire-red, zigzag stripes. The white flesh gets sweeter in dry climates, and it has a mild taste, similar to muskmelon or honeydew. The fruit is small in size, weighing up to 1 lb, but the plants are known to be heavy producers.

One of the standout features of this fruit is its drought tolerance. The Tiggers do well in the drier times of summer, making them a great option for those in areas with low water availability. However, since the plants are quite sprawling, they need enough room to grow or a trellis to climb up.

Overall, I enjoyed growing the CHUXAY Garden Tigger Asian Melon. The fruit is beautiful, tastes delicious, and is quite easy to care for. If you're looking for an exotic and ornamental fruit to add to your garden, this is definitely a great choice.

Golden Giant Asian Melon: A Delicious Oriental Melon Picker

Golden Giant Asian Melon: A Delicious Oriental Melon Picker | Image

Experience the exquisite and unique taste of Golden Giant Asian melons, a delightful alternative to traditional melons. These cylindrical fruits are not only attractive, but also full of flavors and textures that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. With their rich golden-yellow rinds and refreshing, densely sweet yet crisp flesh, they make a perfect addition to any fruit dish or summertime snack. Enjoy the subtle notes of honeydew, apple, and pear in every bite, as the melon's sweetness is balanced by its delightful crispiness.

Whether you're making a fruit salad, sipping on a refreshing smoothie, or simply needing a sweet treat to beat the heat, Golden Giant melons are the perfect choice. Their ideal firmness and complex flavor profile make them an excellent option for those who are not fond of the softness and musky sweetness commonly found in other melons. Embrace the exotic taste of Korea's favorite summer snack, and add a touch of indulgence to your fruit-loving adventures.

Hakucho Hybrid Oriental Melon Seeds - Asian Garden Fruit

Hakucho Hybrid Oriental Melon Seeds — Asian Garden Fruit | Image

The Hakucho melon seeds are a treat for Asian garden fruit enthusiasts. These non-GMO, F1 hybrid seeds produce a melon with a salmon orange flesh that exudes a sweet, aromatic fragrance. The oval fruit has a yellowish gray skin with no netting, and its sugar content measures 16% brix.

To grow these delicious fruits, prepare a fertile, well-drained soil and sow the seeds in late spring or early summer after the last frost in a warm, sunny location. Sandy or light textured soils that warm quickly in spring are best. For hill planting, form soil into a 1' diameter mound 3 to 4 inch tall, spacing mounds 4-6' apart and planting 3 seeds on each mound. Row planting spacing should refer to the provided chart.

Harvest melons when the leaves and tendrils turn yellow, and the fruit is about 1 pound in weight. As the fruit ripens, it will produce a pleasant aroma at the blossom end. These melons are best eaten fresh, and with a yield of ~2875 seeds per ounce, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest.

Golden Crispy Oriental Melon Seeds

Golden Crispy Oriental Melon Seeds | Image

As I started gardening last season, I knew I wanted to try something new. That's when I stumbled upon the Golden Crispy Melon Seeds. These melons were easy to grow, and they matured quickly, giving me a satisfying harvest in no time. The fruits were small yet mighty, with their smooth golden skin and succulent sweet flesh that made them simply irresistible.

One of the features that stood out the most was their early maturity. Unlike other melons that require a long growing season, these Golden Crispy Melons had been ready to pick in just a few months. However, I also noticed that they were not frost-hardy, so I had to be extra cautious in colder months to protect my growing plants.

The growing tips provided were also extremely helpful - ensuring the melons loved slightly sandy, well-drained soil was crucial, and I had to be careful not to overwater them, especially during the fruit's maturity. And although these melons weren't the tastiest I've ever had, their unique sweetness and aromatic flesh added a layer of complexity that made them stand out in my garden.

Overall, the Golden Crispy Melon Seeds were a delightful addition to my gardening experience, and I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a tasty, easy-to-grow melon variety.

Oriental Melon Seeds - Kiku Chrysanthemum

Oriental Melon Seeds — Kiku Chrysanthemum | Image

Imagine a small, charming melon that's perfect for your balcony or patio – that's the Kiku Chrysanthemum melon. Its name is inspired by the delicate Japanese chrysanthemum flower, and just like its namesake, this little melon is a sight to behold. The early and productive Kiku Chrysanthemum melon has a mellow, creamy flesh that tastes like a perfect blend of Greek yogurt and lychee. It's a delightful fusion of flavors that is truly unique.

Growing a Kiku Chrysanthemum melon is a fun and rewarding experience. It's a sun-loving plant that needs a little bit of warmth to sprout, but once it's up, it's a champ at producing fruit. Plant it in slightly sandy, rich soil that drains well, and remember to keep the watering consistent to prevent overwatering. It's not the most frost-hardy plant, so make sure to provide it with a cozy environment.

The Kiku Chrysanthemum melon is a treasure trove of flavor, and it's a great addition to any garden. If you're looking for a rare and exotic fruit, give it a try. You might just discover your new favorite.

Unique Korean Oriental Melon Seeds - Rare Orange Skinned Fruit

Unique Korean Oriental Melon Seeds — Rare Orange Skinned Fruit | Image

These Korean Melon Seeds, affectionately known as Dae Jang Geum, are truly one-of-a-kind. Being a hybrid of cucucis melon var. makuwa, these seeds boast bright, rare orange skin that adds a splash of color to any garden.

But it's not just about looks – these melons are a delight to eat with their crispy texture and sweet, 17 brix taste. The shape is oval with a weight of over 1.5 lbs. , and the skin sports a beautiful golden yellow with white suture. With a warm season annual growth and 40-50 days from fruit set to maturity, these seeds are perfect for gardeners searching for a unique, delicious treat.

Plus, being Non-GMO, they're eco-friendly and offer a healthier choice.

Japanese Tiger Melon Seeds - Pocket-Sized, Striped Fruits for Rich, Well-Drained Soil

Japanese Tiger Melon Seeds — Pocket-Sized, Striped Fruits for Rich, Well-Drained Soil | Image

Last weekend, I was experimenting with different melon seeds in my backyard. I stumbled upon these Japanese Tiger melon seeds and couldn't resist giving them a try. Now, I'm hooked! Let me tell you about my experience with these adorable little fruits.

These unique melons have a crisp, sweet flesh and a beautiful tiger striped skin that makes them stand out. They top out at 10-12 ounces each, which is perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite salads or dishes. I planted the seeds according to the instructions - 1/2 inch deep at 18 inch spacing in well-drained soil under full sun.

As the vines grew, they became a lush green patch that seemed to produce an endless supply of these delightful striped cucurbits. While they're frost-sensitive and require a bit of care, I found that by paying attention to the ideal temperature (75 - 90 degrees F) during germination, the seeds sprouted in 7-14 days.

Overall, I highly recommend these Japanese Tiger melon seeds for anyone looking to add a beautiful and delicious touch to their culinary adventures. With a bit of patience and care, you'll be enjoying these tasty treats in no time. Just remember to keep an eye on the temperature and soil conditions, and you'll be rewarded with a bounty of these Oriental Melons.

Hara Madhu Melon Seeds: Oriental Melon with Unique Flavor and Sweetness

Hara Madhu Melon Seeds: Oriental Melon with Unique Flavor and Sweetness | Image

I recently tried the Hara Madhu melon seeds, and let me tell you - the experience was delightful. These seeds are so pretty, shaped like a teardrop! The fruit they produce is incredibly sweet, with a super high sugar brix level and an exquisite flavor that tastes like it's straight from the heart of Punjab.

Growing these melons has been quite an adventure. The 10-12 foot long vines need a bit of care, especially when the fruit is nearing maturity. It's important not to overwater them. The melons themselves are amazing - they come in at 2-3 pounds, with a lovely striped green and cream exterior, and white flesh. They don't last long though, so you'll want to enjoy them quickly!

The Hara Madhu melon is a real treat to grow and eat. It's a bit of a diva when it comes to soil, preferring slightly sandy, very rich, well-drained ground. But the results are more than worth the effort. Just be prepared for a short shelf life, and you'll be all set to savor these wonderful melons!

Jyunpaku Pure White Bitter Melon Seeds - Traditional Okinawan Oriental Melon

Jyunpaku Pure White Bitter Melon Seeds — Traditional Okinawan Oriental Melon | Image

As a fan of healthy, fresh ingredients, I knew I had to give the Okinawan Pure White bitter melon seeds a try. The thought of a lightly bitter fruit with potential health benefits sounded like a tasty challenge.

The seeds arrived in an attractive package, showcasing the stunning pearly white fruit that grew from them. Planting the seeds proved to be an easy process, and before I knew it, sprouts started to emerge within just a week. By following the recommended plant spacing and using a trellis for support, the plants quickly grew tall, bearing fruit in just a few weeks.

When it finally came time to harvest, the fruit was a magnificent shade of white and truly looked like a treasure. The moment of truth arrived when I bit into the fruit, and with every bite, I experienced a rich, mellow flavor that was far less bitter than I had anticipated.

As the fruit ripened, it developed a sweetness that transformed it into something entirely delightful. The fact that it boasts possible medicinal value and is linked to the longevity of the people of Okinawa made it all the more intriguing.

Overall, my experience with the Okinawan Pure White bitter melon truly left me feeling healthy and satisfied. With proper care and attention, these seeds are sure to surprise and delight even the most discerning foodie.

Buyer's Guide

Oriental melon, also known as the Golden Honeymelon, is a unique and popular fruit with a vibrant yellow-orange flesh. This buyer's guide aims to provide you with essential information on the features, considerations, and advice when selecting and consuming oriental melons.

Features of Oriental Melon

Oriental melons have a distinct flavor and texture that separate them from other fruit varieties. Here are some key features to consider when choosing an oriental melon:

  1. Color - A ripe oriental melon should have bright yellow or orange skin with a golden hue. 2. Weight - Choose an oriental melon that feels heavy for its size, as this indicates more juice and better flavor. 3. Firmness - The melon should be firm to the touch, with no soft spots that might indicate spoilage. 4. Smell - Ripe oriental melons should have a sweet, fragrant aroma. 5. Seed Count - Oriental melons usually have 8-12 large seeds.

Considerations When Selecting Oriental Melons

  1. Seasonality - Oriental melons are primarily grown in Southeast Asia, Southern China, and Northern Australia. They are typically available in the summer and early fall months. 2. Purchasing Options - Oriental melons can be found at specialty grocery stores or Asian markets, along with online retailers. 3. Storage - If you have a ripe oriental melon that you are not planning to consume right away, store it in a cool, dry place with good ventilation for up to three days. 4. Nutritional Value - Oriental melons are low in calories and high in water content, making them a great hydration option. They also contain vitamins C and A, as well as potassium and fiber.

Preparing and Enjoying Oriental Melons

  1. Cleaning - Wash the oriental melon thoroughly under running water. 2. Peeling - Use a vegetable peeler or sharp knife to remove the skin. 3. Slicing - Cut the melon in half and then scoop out the seeds using a spoon. Slice the melon between the seeds for serving. 4. Storing - If you have a large oriental melon and only plan to consume a portion of it, store the leftover halves in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 5. Usage - Add diced oriental melons to salads, salsas, or even blended into a refreshing drink!

Safety Tips for Oriental Melons

  1. Check for Ripeness - Do not consume under-ripe or spoiled oriental melons. 2. Proper Storage - Ensure that oriental melons are stored in a cool, dark, dry area to maintain their quality and flavor. 3. Wash Before Consumption - Always wash oriental melons before slicing, dicing, or consuming them to reduce the risk of contamination. 4. Inspect for Contamination - Be vigilant about any visible signs of spoilage, mold, or decay when selecting and using oriental melons.

FAQ

What is an Oriental melon?

An Oriental melon, also known as a cantaloupe, is a type of musk melon originating in Asia. It has a rough, netted skin and a sweet, juicy flesh with a slightly musky aroma. The fruit is often round or oval-shaped and can weigh between 2 to 5 pounds. It is popular for its refreshing taste and nutritional benefits.

Oriental melons are available in several varieties, including the Honeydew, Atimon, and Charentais, which differ in size, shape, and flavor profiles. They are typically harvested in the summer and are enjoyed as a healthy snack or used in various recipes, such as salads, smoothies, and desserts. They are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and fiber.

How do you select the best Oriental melon?

When selecting an Oriental melon, look for a fruit with a uniform shape and a netted, rough skin. The skin should be free of blemishes, bruises, or soft spots. The melon should also feel heavy for its size, indicating that it is ripe and juicy. The stem end of the melon should be slightly soft, but not overly mushy.

It's essential to avoid melons with a strong musty smell or a sour taste, as these may indicate that the fruit is overripe or spoiled. If you are unsure about the ripeness of a melon, gently press on the skin with your thumb; a ripe melon will yield slightly to the pressure. If you can't find a ripe melon at your local grocery store, try visiting a farmers' market or produce stand, where you may find fresher, locally grown options.

How does one prepare and serve Oriental melon?

Preparing an Oriental melon is relatively straightforward. First, wash the melon thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or bacteria. You can then pat the melon dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Use a sharp, serrated knife to carefully cut off a small portion of the stem end to create a flat surface for the melon to sit on. Then, position the melon on a cutting board or stable surface and cut it in half, lengthwise, by following the natural curve of the fruit. Use the knife to gently separate the halves of the melon, exposing the juicy, colorful flesh.

Once the melon is cut, you can serve it as is or slice it into wedges or balls for easy consumption. For a refreshing treat, you can chill the melon in the refrigerator before serving, or add it to cold water or sparkling water for a refreshing beverage. Oriental melons are also a delicious addition to various recipes, such as salads, smoothies, and desserts. Try pairing them with other fresh fruits, like berries or grapes, or add a splash of lemon or lime juice to enhance their natural sweetness.

What is the difference between a Honeydew and a Cantaloupe melon?

While Honeydew and Cantaloupe melons are both types of Oriental melons, they have some distinct differences in appearance, texture, and flavor. Honeydew melons are typically round or oval-shaped and have a smooth, greenish-gray skin that is dotted with tiny, brownish-black spots. The flesh of a Honeydew melon is pale green and has a creamy texture, with a mild sugar content and a slightly musky, floral aroma.

Cantaloupe melons, on the other hand, are characterized by their rough, netted skin and round or oval shape. The skin color can range from greenish-yellow to orange, depending on the variety. The flesh of a Cantaloupe melon is typically salmon-pink or orange and has a juicy, sweet flavor with a slightly musky aroma. Cantaloupes are generally larger and heavier than Honeydew melons, which makes them more filling and satisfying as a snack or dessert.

What are some healthy ways to use Oriental melon?

Oriental melons are not only delicious but also nutritious and versatile. They can be enjoyed in various healthy ways, such as salads, smoothies, and desserts. Here are a few ideas to incorporate Oriental melons into your healthy eating habits:

  1. Add diced or sliced melon to a fruit salad, accompanied by other seasonal fruits like berries, grapes, or mangoes. 2. Blend a ripe Oriental melon with yogurt, frozen bananas, and a splash of milk or coconut water for a refreshing, nutrient-packed smoothie. 3. Top a plain Greek yogurt with diced melon, fresh mint, and a drizzle of honey for a tasty and protein-rich snack. 4. Use cantaloupe melon as a base for a chilled soup, combining it with cucumber, avocado, and fresh herbs for a refreshing summer dish.

Overall, Oriental melons offer a variety of benefits to your health, including providing essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Incorporating them into your diet can not only help satisfy your sweet tooth but also contribute to your overall well-being. So, don't hesitate to experiment with new recipes and creative ways to enjoy these tasty fruits.

How do you store Oriental melon to maintain its freshness?

Storing an Oriental melon properly is crucial for maintaining its freshness and flavor. First, ensure that you store your melon in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry, away from direct sunlight and high temperatures. Melons are sensitive to temperature changes, so avoid storing them in the refrigerator until you are ready to consume them. The cold temperatures can cause the fruit to ripen more quickly, leading to a softer texture and a loss of flavor.

Once you are ready to eat your melon, wash it under cool running water to remove any dirt or bacteria. You can then pat the melon dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. To maintain the freshness of the fruit, cut the melon in half, lengthwise, by following the natural curve of the fruit. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon and use a sharp, serrated knife to make slices or wedges. Store the cut melon in a tightly sealed plastic container or wrap it in plastic wrap, with the exposed seeds and skin facing down to avoid discoloration. The cut melon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you prefer to eat your melon whole, wrap it securely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or two.

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