This perennial annual vine as a slender pubescent stems with tendrils and forms a sprawling climbing habit. It has variable dark green large rounded lobed leaves and the yellow funnel-shaped flowers appear solitary and are followed by sweet edible fruit.

Hardiness zones 5 to 11

Cucumis melo is thought to be naturally found in west Africa but due to long-term cultivation its original origin is uncertain, but generally they come from tropical and subtropical regions where it grows in lowlands grasslands and along the forest margins. 

It prefers an open a sunny position and grows in well-drained organic rich moisture retentive sandy to clay soil with a pH range from 6.1 to 7.5 and is drought and frost tender.

Rockmelon / Cantaloupe is grown for its edible fruit and its climbing habit. It is grown in domestic vegetable gardens and can be trained over strong structures or lattice. It is also grown commercially in farms and can be planted in large pots or planter boxes and roof gardens. It is suitable for coastal and inland regions and establishes in one season but is short lived. Melon is used in fruit salads and smoothies and is normally eaten raw. There are many cultivars, please contact your local nursery for available varieties. ID 3360

Cucumis (KOO-koo-mis) melo (MEL-oh)

Cucurbitaceae (koo-ker-bih-TAY-see-ee)
Gourd or Pumpkin Family