Tortarello from Abruzzo (Cucumis melo)

Tortarello Abruzzese (Cucumis melo) : an ancient melon eaten young like a cucumber. The hardy plant is very productive; the fruit grows between 40 and 80 centimeters tall. It is eaten fresh, and its flavor is similar to cucumber, but with a hint of sweetness. Sown in spring, it is ready for consumption in about 40 days after transplanting. To save the seeds, wait until fully ripe, about 75 days after transplanting.

It is advisable to save the seeds, since the interest of commercial cultivation is producing hybrids that could disperse the rusticity of the variety.