If you’ve ever wondered what an alien fruit might look like, the horned melon—also known as kiwano—could be your answer. With its spiky orange exterior and neon-green, jelly-like interior, the horned melon certainly looks like it belongs in a sci-fi movie rather than your local grocery store. But despite its otherworldly appearance, this African native is a delicious and refreshing treat that’s quickly making a name for itself around the world.
An Extraterrestrial Look
The horned melon is easily recognizable by its vibrant orange, spiked rind, which resembles the skin of a creature from another planet. Its bizarre, horn-like protrusions add to the fruit’s alien-like aesthetic, making it a standout in the world of exotic fruits. Inside, the fruit reveals a jelly-like, bright green pulp filled with small, edible seeds that give it a unique texture and flavor profile.
A Flavorful Fusion
The taste of the horned melon is as unusual as its appearance. When you take your first bite, expect a blend of banana, cucumber, and lime. The sweetness of the banana meets the refreshing crunch of cucumber, while a tangy hint of lime adds a zesty kick. This unexpected fusion of flavors makes the horned melon a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.
A Native of Africa
Despite its otherworldly look, the horned melon is very much of this world. Native to southern Africa, the fruit thrives in arid and semi-arid regions, where it has been cultivated for centuries. It’s a resilient plant, well-suited to hot, dry climates, and is known for its ability to survive with minimal water, making it a valuable crop in areas where resources are limited.
Beyond its striking appearance, the horned melon has also been praised for its health benefits. Packed with vitamins C and A, antioxidants, and hydrating properties, it’s a low-calorie fruit that provides a nutritious boost to any diet.
A Rising Star in Global Markets
In recent years, the horned melon has begun to gain popularity outside of Africa, particularly in the United States, Europe, and parts of Asia. Thanks to its exotic look and unique taste, it has found a place in gourmet kitchens and health-conscious markets, where it’s often hailed as a superfruit.
While the fruit’s popularity grows, so does its cultivation outside of its native habitat. It is now being grown in places with similar climates, such as parts of California, New Zealand, and Australia, allowing more people to enjoy its alien-like charm.
With its striking appearance, unexpected flavor, and health benefits, the horned melon is a true marvel of the natural world. Whether you’re looking for a new fruit to try or simply want to impress your friends with something that looks like it came from another planet, the kiwano is sure to satisfy your cravings. Straight out of Africa and straight into your kitchen, this “alien fruit” is a must-try for anyone seeking adventure in their food.
