Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Paddy Melon





The Paddy Melon (also known as a pie melon) is an introduced species that can be found growing in the wild in Western Queensland. The vine is rather similar to that of a watermelon, and the fruit has the same smooth, thick skin. However, the inside of the melon is totally different. It has a non sweet, white flesh which is firmer than that of a water melon. People have been known to make jams, chutneys and puddings from the melon......however it is not a taste sensation that is overly thrilling, as it has a bitter taste. The seeds inside the melon are yellow, small and numerous.

This plant is considered a weed and is grazed by camels and cattle. The seeds are also eaten by birds, which are capable of spreading them. The plants are drought tolerant and often can be seen growing on the sides of roads - as well as in sandy soils, plains and clay soils.

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