Pepino Melon: The Andean Cucumber-Melon
The pepino is a small striped fruit from a South American nightshade — botanically a relative of tomatoes, marketed and eaten as a melon.
The pepino (Solanum muricatum) is a small egg-shaped striped fruit native to the Andean valleys. Botanically it is a nightshade — closely related to tomatoes and eggplants, not actually a melon — but its mild sweet flavor and watery flesh have led to its marketing as a melon. The Spanish name "pepino" means "cucumber," reflecting its mild cucumber-melon hybrid taste.
Origin and history
Native to the Andean highlands of Peru, Bolivia, and Chile. Cultivated by the Inca for at least 1,000 years. Commercial cultivation in New Zealand from the 1970s established it in international markets.
Where it grows today
Chile, Peru, New Zealand, and small commercial plantings in California and Australia produce pepinos.
How to grow
USDA Zones 9-11 perennial; grown as annual elsewhere. Small bushy plant (60-100cm). Self-fertile. First fruit in 4-5 months from seed.
Bottom line
A mild refreshing Andean fruit worth trying once. Easy to grow as an annual even in cooler climates.