Spiky on the Outside, Slippery on the Inside: Meet the Bizarre Fruit Called Kiwano

A Curious Fruit from a Distant Land

Some fruits surprise you. Not just with taste, but with their appearance, their history, and the way they defy expectations. One such fruit is the Kiwano, also called the Horned Melon. If you've never seen one, picture this: an orange oval fruit, covered in spiky horns, looking more like a prop from a sci-fi movie than something you’d eat for breakfast.

But inside? A bright green, jelly-like flesh filled with edible seeds, so bizarre that many people hesitate before taking the first bite. Yet this strange fruit holds a story as rich as its color.

Where Does It Come From?

The Kiwano (Cucumis metuliferus) is native to Sub-Saharan Africa, especially around the Kalahari Desert. There, it’s not just a curiosity—it’s a traditional source of hydration during dry seasons. The fruit’s high water content makes it essential in arid environments.

As global trade expanded, so did the Kiwano’s reach. Today, it’s grown in countries like New Zealand, Australia and the United States (especially in California). In fact, New Zealand farmers helped popularize the fruit in Western markets by naming it “Kiwano,” drawing a link to the kiwi fruit (even though they’re not related).

What Does It Taste Like?

Describing the taste of Kiwano isn’t simple—it’s one of those "you have to try it yourself" experiences. But many agree that its flavor falls somewhere between:

• Cucumber

• Kiwi

• Banana (but not too ripe)

• And sometimes even a dash of lemon or lime

Its texture is even more memorable—soft, slippery, and jelly-like, with tiny edible seeds. Some love it. Some need time to adjust. But few forget it.

How Is It Eaten?

There’s no wrong way to eat a Kiwano, but the most common methods include:

1. Cut it in half and scoop out the insides with a spoon.

2. Add it to fruit salads or smoothies for a unique texture and color.

3. Use the empty shell as a decorative bowl for desserts or cocktails.

4. Chill it before eating—it enhances the refreshing, cucumber-like taste.

Its appearance also makes it a favorite in food photography and gourmet platings. You’ve likely seen it on high-end menus or tropical-themed spreads.

What’s Inside That’s Good for You?

Beyond its quirky looks and interesting taste, the Kiwano is surprisingly nutritious:

• Hydrating – Over 90% water, perfect for hot climates.

• Vitamin C – Supports immunity and skin health.

• Vitamin A – Good for vision and cell repair.

• Antioxidants – Helps reduce oxidative stress.

• Magnesium & Potassium – Beneficial for heart and muscle function.

• Low calorie – Roughly 44 calories per fruit.

Plus, it’s fat-free, cholesterol-free, and rich in dietary fiber—making it a friendly option for many diet types, including vegan and paleo.

Did You Know?

• In Africa, it’s sometimes known as “jelly melon” or “African horned cucumber.”

• The seeds are rich in linoleic acid, a healthy omega-6 fatty acid.

• The fruit has even been studied as a possible natural source of antioxidants for skincare and health products.

• It has a long shelf life, even without refrigeration—ideal for remote regions.

Why Don’t More People Know About It?

Despite its benefits, the Kiwano remains somewhat of a mystery in many parts of the world. It’s not commonly grown in Southeast Asia or heavily marketed in supermarkets. Its unusual look might intimidate buyers, and its relatively high price (as an import) limits popularity in some regions.

But for the curious or health-conscious, it’s worth seeking out. More specialty grocery stores and organic markets are starting to carry it, especially in urban areas.

Final Thought: Beauty in the Bizarre

In a world filled with uniform apples and bananas, the Kiwano reminds us that nature loves to surprise us. Spiky on the outside, soft on the inside—just like many things in life. It’s a fruit that asks us to look closer, to be curious, and maybe, to take a bite out of something a little strange.

Because sometimes, the weirdest-looking fruit on the shelf turns out to be the most refreshing of all.