Futo Spindle Bitter Gourd Seeds – 5 Seeds Asian Bitter Melon Vine
Futo Spindle Bitter Gourd is a productive Asian bitter melon variety prized for its thick, spindle-shaped fruits and vigorous vining growth. Also known as bitter melon or karela, this warm-season vegetable produces dark green, deeply ribbed fruits that are a staple in many Asian and tropical cuisines. The vines are heavy yielders and can be grown on trellises, fences, or arbors, making them a practical and attractive addition to the vegetable garden.
Whether you are an experienced grower or new to bitter gourd, this variety offers reliable performance in warm weather and well-drained soil. The fruits are typically harvested young and tender for stir-fries, curries, soups, and stuffed dishes. With proper care, the vigorous vines can provide a steady supply of fresh bitter melon throughout the growing season.
Plant Features
- Produces thick, spindle-shaped, dark green fruits with characteristic warty ridges
- Vigorous vining habit that performs well on trellises and other vertical supports
- Productive plants that can yield multiple harvests over the season
- Warm-season annual vegetable suited to full sun and warm temperatures
- Popular in Asian cooking for stir-fries, curries, and stuffed preparations
Growing Information
- Botanical Name: Momordica charantia
- Plant Type: Annual vining vegetable
- Sunlight: Full sun
- Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter
- Water Requirements: Moderate; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
- Growth Habit: Climbing vine; requires a trellis or support
- Spacing: 12–24 inches between plants, with rows 36–48 inches apart
Planting & Care
Start bitter gourd seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before the last expected frost, or sow directly outdoors once the soil has warmed and all danger of frost has passed. Soaking seeds overnight and nicking the seed coat can help improve germination. Plant seeds about 1 inch deep in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Provide a sturdy trellis, fence, or arbor for the vines to climb, as this improves airflow and makes harvesting easier.
Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during flowering and fruiting, and mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Feed plants with a balanced fertilizer according to package directions if growth appears slow. Monitor for common pests such as aphids and cucumber beetles, and harvest fruits while they are young and tender for the best flavor and texture. Regular harvesting encourages continued production.
What's Included
This listing includes 5 Futo Spindle Bitter Gourd seeds.