'Facussa' Chate Cucumber
Cucumis melo subsp. Chate
Seeds per pack ~15
Germination: 95% Dec 2024 Packed for 2025
Origins & History: The 'Facussa' Chate is a rare and traditional variety of Cucumis melo subsp. chate, cultivated primarily in Mediterranean regions, particularly North Africa and Southern Italy. This subspecies, known as chate melons, has been historically grown in Egypt and parts of the Middle East, where it thrives in hot, arid conditions. The 'Facussa' variety is especially notable in Sicilian and Maltese gardening traditions, where it is often associated with heirloom vegetable cultivation.
Characteristics: ‘Facussa’ are elongated and cylindrical, resembling a cross between a cucumber and a melon. The skin is usually pale green, sometimes with faint stripes. Unlike sweet melons, the flesh is firm, crisp, and mildly flavored, similar to a young cucumber. It has a mild, slightly sweet taste with a refreshing crunch, making it ideal for fresh consumption.
It is a vigorous climbing vine with tendrils that benefit from trellising, similar to cucumbers. Though botanically classified as a melon, it is typically used as a vegetable rather than a fruit.
Culinary Uses: Often consumption is raw. Typically eaten fresh in salads, sliced thinly, or enjoyed with olive oil and salt.
In traditional Sicilian and Mediterranean cuisines, it is used similarly to cucumbers in summer salads or pickled. Its crisp texture and mild flavor make it an excellent choice for cooling, hydrating dishes in hot climates.
Growing Tips: Prefers warm to hot climates with full sun exposure. It thrives in Mediterranean-like conditions. Requires from well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with good organic matter. Keep soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Benefits from trellising or vertical growing structures to keep fruits off the ground and improve air circulation.
As a companion plant it pairs well with beans, basil, and corn while avoiding strong aromatic herbs that may stunt growth. Harvest when young (about 6-12 inches long) for the best texture and flavor.
