Momordica charantia
Available for purchase from 1 July 2025
Abashi Bitter Melon is an heirloom treasure from Okinawa, Japan, where it is deeply woven into local cuisine and longevity traditions. Abashi Bitter Melon. Bitter melon (a.k.a. bitter gourd, goya, or karela) is a superfood known around the world as a characteristically bitter-flavoured and nutrient-rich fruit.
This particular variety sets itself apart with large, glossy green fruits that reach up to 25cm long and display a distinctive warty texture. Compared to other bitter melon types, Abashi is milder in taste, making it more approachable to those new to this ancient vegetable. It thrives in intense summer heat and is a popular choice in regions that mimic the subtropical climate of its island origins.
Abashi is prized in the kitchen for its culinary versatility. The firm flesh and gentle bitterness lend themselves well to traditional stir-fries, soups, or steamed dishes, often paired with strong savoury flavours like garlic, soy and chilli. In Okinawa, it is commonly sliced and sautéed with egg and tofu in the iconic goya champuru. Young leaves are sometimes brewed as a tea, while overripe fruits reveal sweet, scarlet arils that can be eaten fresh or added to salads for a sweet-sour surprise.
Start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before transplanting. For best results, soak the seeds for 24 hours and then scarify slightly to assist germination. Sow 2 to 3cm deep in warm, moist soil and maintain temperatures above 24 °C. Germination may take 7 to 21 days, depending on heat and moisture. Transplant once the soil is thoroughly warm and any danger of frost has passed. Abashi can be sown directly in warm climates, but early seedling growth with bottom heat using a Germination Heating Pad will give you a faster, more even germination, and a jump on the season.
This vigorous climbing vine requires full sun, fertile soil and a sturdy trellis system to support its spreading growth habit. Plants should be spaced 45 to 60cm apart to allow airflow and ease of harvest. Abashi matures approximately 90 to 110 days from sowing. Harvest when fruits are fully sized, firm and deep green for the mildest taste. Fruits left to ripen will turn orange and split open to reveal red seeds, which indicate peak seed maturity. Regular picking encourages new fruit set throughout the season.
Standard packet contains approx. 15 seeds
Petite packet contains approx. 5 Seeds
Abashi Bitter Melon
- Product Code: NVS248-0005
- Availability: In Stock
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R40.54
Available Options
Tags: Abashi, Bitter Melon, Melon, Japanese Melon,