08/09/2026
If you've ever heard the tale about picking the forbidden fruit 🍎, this is definitely a relatable representation .This peculiar beauty is called the Balsam pear, or otherwise known as the bitter melon or wild Balsam apple. It's in the Cucurbitaceae (cucumber and gourd family ), It's a highly invasive vine found in central Flordia along with other regions. They originate from tropical and subtropical regions of Africa.
These tiny melons start with just a vine and pretty yellow flowers, they sprout these teeny tiny green melons that grow larger and darken into a vibrant yellow-orangey color. After time the melon will burst almost like a firework with bright red seeds. It does have a twin variety that can be used for consumption, but if you find this funky little melon on a fence, coop or tree in your yard, don't be confused, IT ISN'T EDIBLE! It can cause severe poisoning to animals and humans. It's effects on humans include gastrointestinal distress triggering vomiting and diarrhea, induce mild to severe hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar), extremely high pregnancy risks, etc. Pets and small animals are highly sensitive to compounds found in the vine such as tetracycilic cucurbitane terpenoids & lectins. If consumed by animals or livestock it's effects can include severe vomiting and abdominal pain, extreme salvation, muscle tremors, weakness, lethargy, or in severe cases convulsions and seizures. Please be weary if you spot them in your yard and have small children that play outdoors or livestock!
