The melon pear is primarily cultivated for its fruits. But a pretty flower is always welcome for the hobby gardener. A fruit plant can bring benefits and become an ornament at the same time. Can the melon pear, also known as pepino, do this?
What does the flower of the melon pear look like?
The flowering of the melon pear (Pepino) begins in June and lasts until October, with funnel-shaped, purple-white striped or red-purple flowers. They are similar to the potato flower because both belong to the nightshade family. Pollination occurs independently or by insects.
Long flowering period with always new flowers
From May, as soon as there is no frost outside, the growing season of the melon pear begins. She manages to show us her first flowers as early as June. However, it shouldn't stay that way. It regularly opens new buds until October. So it is a normal sight during the summer to see both flowers and fruits hanging on a plant.
Similarity to the potato flower
Anyone who looks at a melon pear blossom will not be able to avoid recognizing its great similarity to the potato blossom. This is not surprising, as both plant species come from the nightshade family.
- Several stalked flowers appear at the top of the shoot
- Flowers are approx. 2-3 cm in diameter
- the five petals are funnel-shaped
- the yellow stamens form a tube together
- this stands out in contrast from the center of the flower
An interesting color change
The flowers of different Pepino varieties differ in color. However, they are usually purple-white striped or red-purple. A special feature is their play of colors depending on the temperature. If it is colder than 20°C, they tend to be white. However, if it is warmer than 27 °C, they appear in a strong purple-blue.
Pollination goes smoothly
The melon pear is a self-pollinating plant, which is why there is no need to worry about a lack of pollination of the flowers. In addition, the flowers are cross-pollinated by insects.
Tip
You should remove flowerless shoots as soon as possible. The energy that would otherwise be wasted on growth can then benefit flowering shoots.
From the flower to the fruit
A rich blossom should lead to a rich harvest to fulfill the goal of cultivation. But when does the melon pear bear fruit? Here is the answer:
- Fruit setting only occurs in warm phases
- during the day and night it must be at least 18 °C
- and that for several days in a row
- ripe fruits are available after about 80 to 105 days
