Watermelon

(Citrullus lanatus)

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Citrullus lanatus, commonly known as Watermelon, is an annual vine or herb that is originally from the Kalahari Desert of southern Africa. It is native to arid and semi-arid regions where it grows in open areas. Watermelon plants are known for their sprawling growth habit, with long, branching tendrils and large, lobed leaves. The plant produces unisexual flowers, with male and female flowers appearing on the same plant (monoecious). The flowers are yellow to white and are borne on hairy stalks. The fruit is large, with a hard green rind and sweet, juicy flesh that ranges in color from pink to deep red, although yellow-fleshed varieties also exist. The flesh contains numerous seeds, but seedless varieties have been developed.

Watermelon is valued for its refreshing fruit, especially in hot climates, and is a staple of summer diets. It is also used in culinary applications, including salads, juices, and as a natural sweetener. In cultivation, watermelon requires a long growing season with high temperatures, ideally over 25 °C (77 °F). It thrives in full sun and needs well-drained sandy loam soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7. The plant is typically grown from seeds sown in pots under cover and transplanted outdoors. Watermelon can be susceptible to pests and diseases such as aphids, cucumber beetles, and fungal infections like powdery mildew. It is important to monitor for these issues to ensure a healthy crop.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Vine, Herb
  • Height: 0.8-1.5 feet
  • Width: 10-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption.

Natural Habitat

Originally from the Kalahari Desert of southern Africa and other semi-arid regions

Other Names

Common Names: Wild Watermelon, Afghan-Melon, Bastard-Melon, Dessert Watermelon, Wassermelone, Sandía, Albudeca, Melon D’Eau, Pastèque, Anguria

Scientific Names: , Citrullus lanatus, Colocynthis citrullus, Citrullus vulgaris, Momordica lanata, Citrullus lanatus subsp. vulgaris, Citrullus aedulis, Cucumis citrullus, Citrullus battich, Cucurbita citrullus

GBIF Accepted Name: Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai