SafePlants

Watermelon

Watermelon is a popular fruit enjoyed worldwide, especially during the summer months. It's known for its refreshing taste and high water content.

Common and Scientific Names

• Common Name: Watermelon
• Scientific Name: Citrullus lanata

Considerations for Children

• Watermelons contain seeds, which could present a choking hazard for very young children.

Distribution and Habitat

Watermelon is originally from southern Africa but is now grown in many parts of the world where warm temperatures and long growing seasons are present.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Watermelon is described as a vine-like flowering plant, specifically a scrambler and trailer.
• It's a large, sprawling annual plant.
• The plant has coarse, hairy foliage.
• The fruit has a green rind and typically red (but also pink, orange, yellow, or even white) watery flesh.

Quirky Facts

• The heaviest watermelon recorded weighed 159 kg (350.5 lb).
• An Australian boy once gained fame for eating an entire watermelon, including the rind, during a cricket match.
• The watermelon can be classified as both a fruit and a vegetable.

Additional Information

• Watermelon is used in a variety of recipes, from simple snacks to more elaborate dishes.
• There are even watermelon festivals and events dedicated to celebrating this fruit.
• Chef Sean Brock used Watermelon Molasses for duck at his restaurant Husk Nashville.