Bitter melon seeds are also known as ku gua, Goya, Karela. Scrape the white seeds and pith out of this warty vegetable, and chop into bite-size pieces for use in soups and stir-fries. Fruits grow straight when allowed to hang as they mature, so provide trellis support in the warmest available spot. Plants are most productive in a greenhouse or up against a south-facing wall. Don’t let the name “bitter melon” put you off. The flesh of Jade Dragon is similar to a cucumber or melon, just not sweet. It absorbs other flavours well, and is considered a cooling vegetable in Chinese medicine, so it balances well with chiles.

Early June: Pregerminate seeds by soaking them in warm water for 24 hours.

a.k.a Momordica Charantia