Pepino (Melon Pear)

Interesting member of the 'Solanum' family which I encountered for the first time at the Fruit Focus event at East Malling, 2009. Three pictures below; click on the thumbnails for more detail.

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The fruit before cutting has a faint aroma similar to a melon, with a hint of brassica.

The flower is extremely similar in colour and shape to that of a potato - purple petals with yellow centre. There are apparently two types of pepino - some are shaped like a plum, others like a beefsteak tomato (above).

The flesh has a similar flavour, smell and texture to a melon, with a slightly astringent aftertaste. The flesh colour is pale pink, like many small melons. The flower is extremely similar to that of a potato - purple petals with yellow centre. I've seen them but didn't have a camera with me. If anyone has a picture which he/she could share, please email.

UPDATE...picture supplied by Cathy Händel, Thun, Switzerland..... she has also supplied pictures of the fruit and I'll put these online soon.

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compiled by Nigel Deacon / Diversity website

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