Momordica balsamina, commonly known as Balsam Apple, is an annual vine native to tropical savannas and scrublands of Africa. It is characterized by its climbing habit, reaching lengths of up to 5 meters. The plant features deeply lobed leaves, tendrils for climbing, and pale yellow, monoecious flowers that bloom in the warm months. The fruit is distinctive, starting green and maturing to a bright orange color, approximately 5-10 cm long. When ripe, the fruits burst open to reveal seeds encased in a sticky red aril. The showy fruits and flowers make it an attractive ornamental plant.

Balsam Apple is valued for its medicinal properties, including the treatment of wounds and gastrointestinal issues. It requires a warm climate to thrive and prefers full sun with well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant once established. In cultivation, it can be used as a screen or grown on trellises. However, it is important to manage the plant carefully due to its invasive potential outside its native range. It can outcompete native vegetation and become a nuisance.CC BY-SA 4.0