Momordica charantia aka Bitter Gourd
Taxonomy
Common names
Bitter Gourd, Bitter MelonHow to care for Bitter Gourd
Difficulty
Bitter Gourd is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Water
Bitter Gourd should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Bitter Gourd loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Bitter Gourd requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Bitter Gourd will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.
Dormancy
During the cold period, it is common for Bitter Gourd to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.
Toxicity
Bitter Gourd is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
More info:
Wikipedia