Solanum muricatum 'Pepino Gold'

Solanum muricatum 'Pepino Gold' is a variety of plant in the Solanaceae family, known as sweet pepino, melon or pepino melon. This plant is native to South America, especially the mountainous regions of Peru and Chile.

Pepino Gold is a perennial plant , but it is often grown as an annual plant in colder climates. The plant can reach heights of 1-1.5 meters and has a bushy shape. The leaves are dark green, large and oval, and its flowers are pale yellow, sometimes with purple spots.

Pepino Gold fruits have an oval or spherical shape and vary in size, reaching up to 10-12 centimeters in diameter. The skin of the fruit is smooth, golden yellow with dark purple stripes or spots. The flesh of the fruit is sweet, juicy, with a taste reminiscent of melon and pear. This fruit has a creamy texture and contains small seeds, similar to those of tomatoes, which are edible.

Pepino Gold is grown in well-drained soils, rich in organic matter, with moderate to full sun exposure. The plant needs a constant temperature of at least 13 degrees Celsius to develop properly. The fruits can be harvested when the peel becomes golden-yellow and begins to soften when pressed.

Sweet cucumber is generally eaten raw, but it can also be used in various culinary preparations, such as fruit salads, smoothies, desserts and even in savory dishes. The fruits are rich in vitamins (especially vitamin C) and minerals, with a low calorie content.

Pot diameter: 10.5 cm. Height with pots included: approx. 15-30 cm (varies depending on the season).