20 Seeds Bitter Gourd Momordica charantia Bitter Melon Heirloom Vine Vegetable

Bitter Gourd is a vigorous tropical vine grown for its distinctive warty green fruits, which are a staple in many Asian and Caribbean kitchens. Also known as bitter melon, it is a warm-season annual that climbs quickly on trellises and produces heavily through the heat of summer when most other vegetables slow down.

The young fruits are harvested for culinary use in stir-fries, soups, and stuffed dishes, where their firm texture and bold bitter flavor are prized. The vine also works well as an ornamental screen or trellis cover, with lobed foliage and small yellow flowers before fruiting. Pick fruits young and tender for the best eating quality, and keep vines picked to encourage continued production.
Species: Momordica charantia
Type: Warm-season annual vine
Plant_Habit: Climbing, trellis or cage recommended
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained, fertile loam; consistent moisture
Days_to_Harvest: 55-70 days from sowing
Zones: 4-11 as an annual
Germination: 7-14 days at 70-85F; soak seed 12-24 hours before sowing to improve take
Sowing: Start indoors 3-4 weeks before last frost or direct sow after soil has warmed
Spacing: 12-24 inches between plants, rows 36-48 inches apart
Notes: Harvest fruits young while firm and green for culinary use