Description

General aspect and origins - Solanum muricatum, also known as pepino or melon pear, is a small shrub from the Solanaceae familly, that bears edible fruits. This shrub is native to South America, and more precisely to Peru and Chile. While not really a new fruit (as this plant has been grown in warmest parts of the United States for more than a century) it is however slowly being rediscovered.
Leaves - The melon pear is a small shrub that can reach 3 ft (1 m) tall. It has an evergreen foliage.
Flowers - Flowers of the melon pear are white and purple, and are similar to other plants from the Solanacae familly, like the potato flowers.
Fruits - The melon pear, or pepino, is a fruit with variable shape and size. It is more or less rounded or oblong, and can be up to about 6 in (15cm) long. When ripe, the melon pear has a yellow-cream skin, with purple stripes. The flesh is juicy and moderately sweet, and has the same texture as a melon. Flavor is quite similar to a cantaloupe. The fruit quality is variable and depends on the variety.

Culture

The melon pear not very frost hardy. However, it can withstand negative temperatures down to about 28°F (-2°C). In colder climates, it can be grown in containers.
Soil - The melon pear requires a well-drained, fertile and neutral to slightly acidic ground.

Propagation

The melon pear is easily propagated by cuttings. It can also be propagated by seeds.

Pests and diseases

Pepino is susceptible to white flies, especially under glass.