Colloquinta is commonly called bitter watermelon or bitter apple, although it actually resembles a miniature watermelon. I encountered the plant while on safari in the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan.

This annual, perennial plant grows in many parts of the world in sandy soils and deserts. It can be found in Africa, Asia, and warm regions of Europe, such as Greece, Italy, and Spain. It is also occasionally found in Australia. It prefers temperatures between 23-27 degrees Celsius, where it thrives best.

This plant is also cultivated for its medicinal properties. Colloquinta contains many active substances, such as alkaloids, essential oils, and cucurbitine, giving it a distinctive, unique scent.

The unusual way of reproduction and dispersal of the coloquat

Wind and terrain play a crucial role in the plant's dispersal process. Once the plant is ripe, strong desert winds detach the fruit from the plant, which then rolls at high speed across the desert. When it encounters an obstacle such as a rock or stone, it shatters upon impact, scattering the seeds into the surrounding area. Rains during the wet season do the rest.

Medicinal properties of coloquinta watermelon

Taken in the form of syrups, tablets, or as a beverage supplement, the fruit helps with gastrointestinal conditions, such as Crohn's disease.

The fruit is also used to treat musculoskeletal pain and urinary tract conditions, such as kidney stones and cystitis.

Coloquium also has numerous cosmetic properties

The coloquium rhizome has anti-dandruff, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties and can be successfully used as a natural hair shampoo.

Coloquium is also used in the production of skin care cosmetics. It contains a high content of fruit acids and vitamin C. Products containing it have cleansing and antiseborrheic properties.

Of course, I wouldn't be myself if I didn't bring home some seeds. I plan to sow some in the spring and observe the plant's growth, flowering, and fruiting.