Pepino (Melon pear)

Solanum muricatum

Sprawling Andean perennial shrub producing pale-skinned, purple-streaked fruit with mild, melon-like flavour.

Hardiness ratings

Pepino (Melon pear) hardiness across the four zone systems
SystemRatingTemperature rangeHow to read it
USDA hardiness zone Zone 8–11 −12.2 °C to 10 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
RHS hardiness rating H4 −10 °C to −5 °C Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance
Canadian plant hardiness zone Zone 8–9 −7 °C and warmer Plant tolerates down to this zone
Australian (ANBG) zone Zone 4–7 0 °C and warmer Plant tolerates down to this zone

Growing notes

  • Perennial in frost-free climates; treat as annual elsewhere or lift cuttings for winter
  • Quick-cropping — fruit within 4–6 months of planting

Pet caution: Pepino (Melon pear) is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.

Categories

Related plants

Cross-check Pepino (Melon pear) against your zones

Reference

Pepino (Melon pear) on Wikipedia