Watermelon - Citrullus lanatus (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Edible)

Watermelon

Also known as: Egusi melon, Bitter wooly melon

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is a flowering plant with a vine-like appearance native to Western Africa. Watermelon bears fruit that are widely cultivated and consumed across the world. Watermelon grow in tropical and temperate climates and requires warmth to grow. There are 1000 varieties around the world.

Scientific classification

Species

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus)

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Annual

Lifespan

Vine, Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Late summer, Early fall

Harvest Time

50 cm

Plant Height

2 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

4 mm

Flower Size

Green, Black, Yellow, White

Fruit Color

Yellow

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Watermelon

Distribution of Watermelon

Distribution Map

Watermelon is native to parts of North Africa and South Africa. It naturally grows in grasslands and on riversides. However, this popular fruit has also been introduced and cultivated widely in temperate regions across the world.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Open ground in desert areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Beauty Improvement Value

Watermelon is rich in cosmetic elements with sunscreen and whitening effects.

Garden Use

The watermelon is a popular garden plant in warmer climates. This vine is typically planted in backyard fruit and vegetable garden plots, so that its delicious edible fruit can be harvested right at home. Companion plants of the watermelon often include Pumpkin, Marigold, Squash, and Corn.

Symbolism

Good luck and happiness

Interesting Facts

Watermelon is known as the king of summer melons and fruits. There is a Chinese proverb that says that having watermelon in the summer can prevent diseases. This means that eating watermelon can prevent heatstroke, and it is a good water supplement.

Name Story

Watermelon: In hot summer, the solution for dehydration is consuming watermelon. Like its name, this plant contains 91% water content. This fruit, which has been cultivated for thousands of years has become one of the best-selling fruits today.

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Quickly Identify Watermelon

Large, lobed leaves with hairy undersides, 3-5 primary lobes, toothed margins, 3-8 inches (7.6-20.3 cm) long.

Stout stems covered in long, white, woolly hairs, angular and grooved, with curly tendrils for climbing.

Spherical to oblong fruits with mottled green, thick rind, red or pink juicy interior, 6-44 pounds (2.7-20 kg).

Pale yellow, solitary flowers with 5-lobed calyx, 5-part corolla, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) in diameter.

Distinct rounded to oblong fruit shape, smooth or slightly hairy, seeds in red to pink flesh.

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Care Guide for Watermelon

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Watermelon, native to arid regions, is drought-tolerant due to its water storage abilities. It thrives in dry conditions, requiring minimal watering—ideally twice a week. Best grown outdoors, it benefits from warm season rains that support its water cycle and lessen the need for extra irrigation.

Fertilize: Fertilizing watermelon boosts growth and yield with balanced fertilizers like 10-10-10 NPK at 2-3 pounds per 100 square feet. Apply pre-planting and during flowering. Adjust frequency based on nutrient demands, and apply in the morning, ensuring proper watering and seasonal adjustments for health.

Pruning: Watermelon is a vine known for its large, sweet fruit. Pruning techniques involve removing lateral vines, cutting back foliage, and snipping small fruits. Optimal pruning time is from early to late spring during active growth, improving air circulation, disease risk, and fruit quality.

Propagation: Spring is optimal for propagating watermelon through sowing, which is straightforward. Healthy green sprouts indicate successful propagation. Use fertile, well-drained soil for best results.

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Images of Watermelon

Distribution of Watermelon

Culture

Quickly Identify Watermelon

Care Guide for Watermelon

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