Kiku Chrysanthemum Melon on a white background.
Melon Seeds, Kiku Chrysanthemum
Kiku Melon on wooden box.
Kiku Melons halved being held.
Kiku Melons in wooden tray.
Kiku Chrysanthemum Melon on a white background.
Melon Seeds, Kiku Chrysanthemum
Kiku Melon on wooden box.
Kiku Melons halved being held.
Kiku Melons in wooden tray.

Melon Seeds,
Kiku Chrysanthemum

4.722 ReviewsSKU: #OML117Min. seed count: 10
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Description

(Cucumis melo). A very rare and historic selection from Japan, this compact melon is ideal for pots. It is named for the Japanese chrysanthemum flower, which it is said to resemble. One of the best melons we found in Japan, with an incredibly unique flavor. Early and very productive. Its mellow, creamy flesh tastes like Greek yogurt with a hint of lychee; the flavor has also been compared to pear. The origin of Kiku melon is the Makuwa Uri melon, which came to Japan from China sometime in antiquity.

Growing Tips: Kiku Chrysanthemum melons are a rare Japanese heirloom known for their intricate rind patterns, high sugar content, and floral aroma. They perform best in full sun with rich, well-drained soil. Mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weed pressure. Maintain consistent watering, especially during flowering and fruiting, and provide ample space or vertical support for vines to grow freely.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Cucumis melo
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Bush
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
4–14
Days to Maturity
75–85
Planting Depth
½–¾ in.
Plant Spacing
18–24 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–90°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Sow seeds outdoors after the last frost when soil temperatures are consistently above 70°F, or start indoors 3–4 weeks early in cooler zones. Transplant after all danger of frost has passed. 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

Plant seeds 1/2 to 3/4 inch deep, spacing 18–24 inches apart in rows 4–6 feet apart. Alternatively, sow 2–3 seeds per hill and thin to the healthiest seedling. Use floating row covers early to protect from pests and cool nights but remove them at flowering to allow for natural pollination.

How to Grow

Water deeply once or twice per week, ensuring soil stays consistently moist but not waterlogged. Apply compost or a balanced organic fertilizer when vines begin to run and again during flowering. Trellising helps support fruits and improves air circulation. Harvest when fruits emit a sweet fragrance and slip easily from the vine.

How to Save Seeds

Note: if you are planning to save seeds, you must isolate Cucumis melo varieties from each other to prevent cross-pollination, or bag the flowers and hand-pollinate them

  • Let fruits fully ripen and begin to soften on the vine
  • Cut the melon open and scoop out seeds
  • Place seeds in a bowl of water and ferment for 1–2 days
  • Rinse and remove floating debris
  • Spread seeds on a screen or paper towel to dry thoroughly
  • Store in a cool, dry, dark place in labeled envelopes for up to 5 years

FAQ

What does the Kiku Chrysanthemum melon taste like?

This melon is exceptionally sweet with a hint of floral complexity. Its pale green flesh is juicy and smooth, offering a unique, aromatic flavor profile unlike typical Western cantaloupes or honeydews.

Can Kiku Chrysanthemum melons be grown vertically?

Yes, these melons do well on a sturdy trellis. Be sure to support developing fruits with mesh slings to prevent strain on the vines and ensure proper airflow and ripening.

Are Kiku Chrysanthemum melons open-pollinated?

Yes, they are open-pollinated, meaning you can save seeds from mature fruit. To avoid cross-pollination, isolate from other Cucumis melo types or use hand-pollination techniques.

Browse our full range of melon seeds.

Customer reviews

4.7 / 5 22 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Loads of little melons: Sets fruit by the dozen, even when neglected.

  • Thrives in heat: Keeps going through 100-degree days and drought.

  • Single-serving size: Palm-sized fruit; halve, scoop and eat, no fuss.

  • Crisp white flesh: Firm, crunchy flesh with a pear or mild honeydew taste.

  • Heads up: Flavor runs mild to bland; let it ripen to fully white.

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