Big Top Bitter Melon with foliage on a white background.
Bitter Melon Seeds, Big Top
Cut and whole Big Top Bitter Melons arranged with seeds and foliage on a white background.
A close-up view of a couple of Big Top Bitter Melons with foliage and blooms.
Close-up of Big Top Bitter Melons with yellow blooms and green leaves.
Big Top Bitter Melons arranged on a jade colored background with foliage and flowers.
A trio of Big Top Bitter Melons growing on the vine in the gardens at Baker Creek.
Gardener harvesting Big Top Bitter Melon in the greenhouse at Baker Creek.
Big Top Bitter Melon with foliage on a white background.
Bitter Melon Seeds, Big Top
Cut and whole Big Top Bitter Melons arranged with seeds and foliage on a white background.
A close-up view of a couple of Big Top Bitter Melons with foliage and blooms.
Close-up of Big Top Bitter Melons with yellow blooms and green leaves.
Big Top Bitter Melons arranged on a jade colored background with foliage and flowers.
A trio of Big Top Bitter Melons growing on the vine in the gardens at Baker Creek.
Gardener harvesting Big Top Bitter Melon in the greenhouse at Baker Creek.

Bitter Melon Seeds,
Big Top

4.311 ReviewsSKU: #BM104Min. seed count: 8
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Description

(Momordica charantia). A unique heart-shaped variety of bitter melon, easy to prepare and with a more mild flavor. The large, softball-sized fruit is an early producer. The long, rambling vines produce tons of smooth skinned, dark green, bumpy fruit. Thanks to a slightly thicker skin, this variety is considered an excellent shipper and is a perfect choice for gardeners wanting to grow bitter melon for the first time. Fruit range from 4 to 6 inches across. A favorite for stuffed bitter melon recipes! This wonderful Chinese heirloom is always a favorite in our gardens.

Growing Tips: Big Top bitter melon grows best in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil and a warm, humid climate. Provide sturdy vertical support early, as its vigorous vines require trellising to thrive. Regularly mulch and feed with compost tea or balanced organic fertilizer to boost productivity. Harvest fruits young, when they’re firm and green, to avoid over-ripening and bitterness.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Momordica charantia
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Vining
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–21
Days to Maturity
65–90
Planting Depth
1 in.
Plant Spacing
18–24 in.
Ideal Temperature
75–90°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before your last frost date or direct-sow once soil warms to at least 70°F. Ensure plants receive full sun and protection from cold. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Soaking seeds overnight and nicking or splitting the tough outer seed coat may improve germination. Plant seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep in loose, fertile soil enriched with compost. Space plants 18–24 inches apart in rows or hills, and install a trellis system at planting time to support rapid vine development and improve airflow.

How to Grow

Water deeply and consistently, aiming to keep soil evenly moist. Apply mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds. Support vines with a vertical trellis to maximize air circulation and sun exposure. Fertilize every few weeks with a balanced organic feed, and inspect regularly for pests like aphids and whiteflies.

How to Save Seeds

  • Allow fruits to fully ripen on the vine until skin turns orange and splits.
  • Remove seeds and rinse off pulp under running water.
  • Dry seeds thoroughly in a shaded, well-ventilated area for 1–2 weeks.
  • Store in a cool, dry, dark place in an airtight container.
  • Label with date and variety name for future planting.

FAQ

Can Big Top bitter melon be grown in cooler regions?

Big Top bitter melon requires warm conditions, but you can start seeds indoors and transplant once soil temperatures consistently stay above 70°F. Use row covers early in the season to retain heat if needed.

How large does Big Top bitter melon fruit get?

This variety is known for producing softball sized, ridged fruits that can reach 4 to 6 inches across. For the best flavor, harvest when fruits are still bright green and firm.

s pruning necessary when growing Big Top bitter melon?

Pruning is not essential but can help manage growth and improve airflow. Pinch off side shoots or older leaves to redirect energy to fruiting and prevent overcrowding on the trellis.

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