Kiwano
Kiwano (Cucumis metuliferus)
Kiwano (pronounced: kee-wah-no), also known as horned melon, jelly melon, hedged gourd, melano, is a tropical fruit native to Sub-Saharan Africa. The scientific name for Kiwano is Cucumis metuliferus.
Etymology
The term "Kiwano" is a trade name given by New Zealand growers, derived from their national symbol, the kiwi bird, due to the fruit's resemblance to the kiwi in color and texture. The scientific name Cucumis metuliferus is of Latin origin, with Cucumis meaning cucumber and metuliferus meaning bearing cones or metal bearing.
Description
The Kiwano is a bright orange fruit with a spiky outer skin and a jelly-like interior. The taste is often described as a combination of banana, lime, and cucumber. The fruit is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, and it's known for its hydrating properties.
Cultivation
Kiwano is a vine of the cucumber and melon family, and it thrives in semi-arid climates. It is now grown in various parts of the world, including California, Mississippi, Chile, Australia, and New Zealand.
Usage
The fruit is usually consumed raw, but it can also be used in cooking. The Kiwano is often used as a garnish or in fruit salads, and it can also be used in cocktails or desserts.
Related Terms
- Cucumis: A genus of twining, tendril-bearing plants which includes the Kiwano.
- Melon: A type of fruit of which Kiwano is a variety.
- Vitamin C: An essential nutrient found in high amounts in the Kiwano.
- Antioxidants: Substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals. Kiwano is rich in antioxidants.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Kiwano
- Wikipedia's article - Kiwano
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski