A resident of Novosibirsk has successfully cultivated melothria, often playfully called “mouse cucumbers,” in her garden. This plant, native to Africa, has proven to be surprisingly adaptable to Siberian conditions.

The small, watermelon-like fruits add a unique touch to salads, offering a cucumber-like taste, according to Anna, who shared her experience with NGS.RU. She mentioned that she had given it to a friend as an experiment, who followed the instructions on the package and provided a fence for the vine to climb.

Melothria is known for its ease of care, requiring consistent moisture and timely harvesting of the fruits. Additionally, it is a rich source of essential nutrients such as potassium, vitamins, phosphorus, and fiber.