Momordica charantia, commonly known as bitter melon, is a fast-growing tropical vine of the Cucurbitaceae family. It is native to tropical regions of Africa, where it thrives in a variety of habitats including forest edges, open woodlands, and agricultural land. This plant is deciduous and can grow up to 16 feet long. It features deeply lobed leaves, yellow flowers, and distinctive oblong fruit with a warty exterior. The fruit starts out green and turns yellow-orange when ripe. Bitter melon flowers in the summer, and its fruit is known for its very bitter taste.

Bitter melon is valued for its edible fruit, which is considered a staple in many Asian cuisines and is also used for its purported medicinal properties, particularly in controlling blood sugar levels. It is often grown on trellises in vegetable gardens and can be used as a natural screen. This vine prefers a hot, humid climate, well-drained soil, and full sun to part shade. It requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. While it is relatively easy to maintain, gardeners should be aware of common pests like aphids and red spider mites.CC BY-SA 4.0