Several Jyunpaku Okinawan Pure White Bitter Melons in a wood bowl on a white background.
Bitter Melon Seeds, Jyunpaku Okinawan Pure White
Jyunpaku Okinawan Pure White Bitter Melons in a wooden box with slices, seeds and foliage.
A single Jyunpaku Okinawan Pure White Bitter Melon growing on vine in the garden.
A man holding Jyunpaku Okinawan Pure White Bitter Melons in bowl.
Jyunpaku Okinawan Pure White Bitter Melons with pickled bitter melon filling.
Several Jyunpaku Okinawan Pure White Bitter Melons in a wood bowl on a white background.
Bitter Melon Seeds, Jyunpaku Okinawan Pure White
Jyunpaku Okinawan Pure White Bitter Melons in a wooden box with slices, seeds and foliage.
A single Jyunpaku Okinawan Pure White Bitter Melon growing on vine in the garden.
A man holding Jyunpaku Okinawan Pure White Bitter Melons in bowl.
Jyunpaku Okinawan Pure White Bitter Melons with pickled bitter melon filling.

Bitter Melon Seeds,
Jyunpaku Okinawan Pure White

4.529 Reviews#BM117 · 6 seeds
Price
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Description

(Momordica charantia). This is one of the most arresting bitter melons you’ll ever lay eyes on—pure white fruit glowing like polished pearls, with a mellow bitterness that makes it especially refined and approachable. Long treasured in Okinawa, where bitter melon is part of the famous longevity diet, Jyunpaku is both beautiful and highly nutritious. The thick fruit grows 8 to 10 inches long and works beautifully in soups or sliced thin, but the real surprise comes when it matures: around the seeds forms a vivid red pulp that is shockingly sweet and among the best-tasting we’ve tried in any bitter melon. A true treasure—ornamental, healthful, and unforgettable.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Momordica charantia
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Vining
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–21
Days to Maturity
75–90
Planting Depth
1 in.
Plant Spacing
24 in.
Ideal Temperature
75–90°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before your last frost or direct sow outdoors after soil temperatures reach 70°F. Warm weather and long days are essential for healthy growth. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Soaking seeds overnight and nicking or splitting the tough outer seed coat may improve germination. Sow 1/2 to 1 inch deep in rich, loose soil with good drainage. Space plants 24 inches apart and install trellising at planting time to support vertical growth and maintain fruit quality.

How to Grow

Water deeply and consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist. Fertilize monthly with compost or balanced organic feed. Train vines upward and prune to encourage airflow and more efficient fruit development. Inspect for pests and treat early with organic pest control methods to prevent infestations.

How to Save Seeds

  • Allow fruits to fully ripen on the vine until skin turns orange and splits.
  • Remove seeds and rinse off pulp under running water.
  • Dry seeds thoroughly in a shaded, well-ventilated area for 1–2 weeks.
  • Store in a cool, dry, dark place in an airtight container.
  • Label with date and variety name for future planting.

FAQ

What makes Jyunpaku Okinawan Pure White different from green bitter melons?

This variety stands out for its luminous white skin, slightly milder bitterness, and tender flesh. It's highly prized in culinary uses and adds aesthetic appeal to garden displays and market stands.

Can Jyunpaku be grown in containers?

Yes, it grows well in large containers (minimum 5 gallons) with rich soil and proper drainage. Provide a trellis and ensure the plant receives full sun and regular watering for healthy vine growth.

How do I know when Jyunpaku fruits are ready to harvest?

Harvest when fruits are firm, white, and around 8 to 10 inches long. Left on the vine they turn yellow-orange, soften, and split, and the flesh loses quality; that ripe stage is when the sweet red seed sacs form, and it is also the stage to let fruit reach if you want to save seed.

Browse our full range of bitter melon seeds.

Customer reviews

4.5 / 5 29 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Thrives in heat: Grows fastest in hot, humid summers and sulks in the cold.

  • Striking white fruit: Pearly white melons that draw compliments on the trellis.

  • Milder than green: Less bitter than green types; good in stir-fries and juice.

  • Productive vines: Once established, vines keep setting fruit until frost.

  • Growing tips: Soak or nick seeds, and transplant only once nights are warm.

More to grow!

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