Taxonomy and Nomenclature
The scientific name of the pepino melon is Solanum muricatum. The cultivar is known as Copa. It belongs to the family Solanaceae. Common names include pepino melon, tree melon, and melon pear.
Origins and Distribution
Pepino melons originated in the Andean regions of Colombia, Peru, and Chile. Cultivation has spread to warm temperate and subtropical regions worldwide, where the plant is grown in gardens, greenhouses, and containers.
Description
The pepino is a shrubby, semi-woody plant. In frost-free areas it can be a perennial, while in colder climates it is cultivated as an annual. The ‘Copa’ cultivar forms a compact, bushy plant about 1 metre in height. Leaves are evergreen in mild climates. Flowers resemble those of the nightshade family, with five petals and often purple markings.
The fruit of ‘Copa’ is egg-shaped to rounded, with creamy yellow skin marked by purple streaks. The flesh is sweet, juicy, and aromatic, often compared to a mixture of melon and pear.
‘Copa’ Cultivar: Distinguishing Features
- Late ripening, with fruits maturing in September to October in temperate climates.
- Shrubby and compact habit, suitable for containers or greenhouse culture, producing extra large fruit.
- Sweet and aromatic flesh when fully ripe.
Cultivation and Care
The plant requires warm conditions and abundant light, and it is frost-sensitive. In temperate regions it is often started indoors or cultivated under protection.
Soil should be well-drained and nutrient-rich. Regular watering is essential, and feeding with a potassium-rich fertilizer after fruit set improves yield and flavour.
Propagation is carried out by seed or by cuttings. Cuttings maintain the characteristics of the named cultivar.
Harvesting and Uses
Fruits are harvested when aromatic and slightly soft, typically in late summer to autumn. The pepino melon is consumed fresh, either on its own, in salads, or in desserts.
Nutritional Aspects
Pepino melons provide vitamin C, carbohydrates, and micronutrients, with low fat content. They contribute hydration and nutrients to the diet.
Challenges, Pests and Diseases
Cultivation is limited by sensitivity to temperature and the need for a long warm season. Pests such as aphids and whitefly may occur. The plant is also susceptible to fungal and viral diseases, as with other members of Solanaceae. Proper ventilation, spacing, and hygiene reduce risks.
Cultivar History and Availability
The ‘Copa’ cultivar is one of several named pepino types offered by commercial nurseries. It is available in Europe and other regions suitable for greenhouse or outdoor cultivation. Named cultivars are selected for traits such as size, ripening time, and flavour.
Comparison Chart: ‘Copa’ and Other Cultivars
| Trait | Copa | Sugar Gold | El Camino | Miski | Colossal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ripening time | Late ripening, September–October | Early ripening, summer | Medium season | Slightly earlier than El Camino | Very late, long season required |
| Plant size / habit | Shrubby, ~1 metre, suitable for containers | Up to 1 metre, some overhanging habit | Moderate shrub, regular fruit load | Vigorous, prolific fruiting | Larger plant, supports very large fruit |
| Fruit size & appearance | Extra large, egg-shaped, creamy yellow with purple streaks | Smaller, golden yellow, minimal streaks | Medium–large, striped | Colourful, rich flesh tones | Very large, cream/yellow, may have streaks |
| Flavour & quality | Sweet, juicy, aromatic | Delicate sweetness | Good flavour, quality variable | Highly aromatic, sweet | Very sweet if vine-ripened |
| Suitability | Best in greenhouse or containers; late ripening limits use in cool climates | Better for shorter seasons | Adaptable, medium length season | Requires full sun and heat | Suited to long-season or greenhouse areas |
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