Benincasa hispida

Available for purchase from 1 July 2025  

The Giant Bullet Head, more commonly referred to as winter melon is a celebrated heirloom from Asia with a growing history that spans centuries across China, India and Southeast Asia. Despite the common name, it is not a true melon. Botanically, it belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, the same group as pumpkins and squash, and is more accurately described as a gourd. True melons belong to the Cucumis genus, whereas Benincasa hispida is distinct. Giant Bullet Head is one of the most dramatic and robust forms, producing long, cylindrical fruit with dark green skin that develops a dense waxy coating. These fruits can reach an impressive 34 kilograms in weight and are prized for their exceptional storage qualities.

In the kitchen, the Giant Bullet Head wax gourd is highly versatile and widely used in traditional cuisines. The firm, slightly sweet white flesh is ideal for winter soups and slow-cooked stews in Chinese cooking. Young fruits are tender enough to be sautéed or braised like baby marrows. Mature fruits are candied or cooked down into smooth fillings for mooncakes and pastries. In India, it is the core ingredient of the famous translucent sweet called petha. Across Southeast Asia, its juice is a popular base for cooling drinks, especially during hot summer months.

To cultivate, start seeds indoors in early spring. Soak seeds overnight and plant 1 to 2 centimetres deep in trays using bottom heat to maintain a stable temperature around 24°C. Once seedlings are established, harden them off and transplant into well-drained, compost-enriched soil in full sun. Allow 90 centimetres between plants to accommodate their vigorous growth. Vines benefit from ground space or a sturdy trellis to support the large fruit. Maturity is reached in 100 to 120 days. Harvest when the skin has developed its thick waxy bloom and the fruit feels firm and heavy.

The most remarkable trait of this gourd is its longevity. Thanks to its natural waxy coating, the mature fruit can be stored whole for many months, often up to a full year, making it one of the longest-keeping vegetables available to home gardeners. With its dramatic size, extended shelf life and outstanding culinary uses, the Giant Bullet Head wax gourd is a deeply practical and impressive crop for serious growers and adventurous cooks alike.

Standard packet contains approx. 15 seeds

Petite packet contains approx. 5 seeds