South Indian Mini Bitter Gourd · Heirloom · Organically Grown · Non-GMO · Origin: South India
Plant Profile
- Botanical Name: Momordica charantia
- Origin: South India
- Type: South Indian mini bitter gourd / bitter melon
- Fruit Size: Approximately 2 inches long
- Fruit Color: Dark green
- Plant Habit: Vigorous climbing vine
- Season: Warm-season vegetable
- Sun: Full sun (6–8+ hours)
- Support: Trellis recommended
- Harvest: Pick young and tender for best eating quality
International & Regional Names
- Mini Karela, Bitter Melon, Bitter Gourd (English)
- Karela (Hindi)
- Pavakkai (Tamil)
- Kakarakaya (Telugu)
- Hagalakayi (Kannada)
Why Grow South Indian Mini Bitter Gourd?
- Authentic compact-fruited variety originating from South India
- Distinctive bitter flavor prized in South Indian cuisine
- Thrives in warm summer heat — perfect for home gardens, raised beds, and trellises
- Small fruit size ideal for traditional preparations
Culinary & Traditional Uses
- South Indian curries and stir-fries
- Fried bitter gourd (pavakkai fry)
- Stuffed karela
- Traditional regional dishes across South and Southeast Asia
How to Grow
- Soak seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours before sowing to improve germination
- Sow seeds ½–1 inch deep in warm, well-draining soil
- Plant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed
- Provide a sturdy trellis, fence, or cattle panel for climbing support
- Harvest regularly to encourage continued fruit production
- Harvest when fruits are young, firm, and dark green — approximately 2 inches long
What NOT To Do
- Do not plant before soil has warmed — cold soil inhibits germination
- Do not allow fruits to over-mature on the vine — productivity will decline
- Do not skip the trellis — vines need vertical support to thrive
Seed Quality Promise
- Carefully packed in small batches at Inherited Seeds
- Heirloom, open-pollinated, non-GMO
- Seeds are intended for planting.
Perfect For
- South Indian and Indian home cooks and gardeners
- Heirloom and cultural variety enthusiasts
- Container gardens, raised beds, and trellised plots
- Anyone seeking authentic regional bitter gourd varieties