Musk melon, also known as cantaloupe, is a type of fruit-bearing plant scientifically known as Cucumis melo var. reticulatus. It belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes other melons and cucumbers. Musk melon plants are warm-season annual vines that produce sweet and flavorful melons with a unique musky aroma. They are native to Asia and Africa but are now cultivated in various regions with a warm climate.