Types of Watermelon: 4 Beloved Categories You Should Know
The ultimate summer superstar, “watermelon,” also known as “Tarbooj,” combines a perfect blend of juiciness, sweetness, and a hydration potential of 92%. On a single thought of it, a single, classic picture with green stripes comes to mind. However, did you know that there are over 1,200 types of watermelon grown globally, each of which differs in shape, size, and flesh colour? In case you missed it, this article contains all the main types and facts about the different types of watermelon in a nutshell.
Types of Watermelon: From Picnic to Mini
Watermelon can be categorised based on size, rind, and flesh colour, offering a wide range of flavours, textures, and nutrients. A quick snapshot of all the types of watermelon is given below-
Based on Seed Type
- Seeded cultivars- Old-style type
The most classic/traditional type of watermelon is the seeded type. This type of watermelon brings up the feelings of nostalgia for many people. The characteristic feature of this watermelon is a thick, green rind that comprises black, mature seeds present throughout the flesh. Much larger in size than the seedless varieties and are well known for their rich flavour, firm texture and plenty of juice. Popular types under these types of watermelon include Georgia Rattlesnake, Moon and Stars, Sangria and Starlight.
- Seedless cultivars
This watermelon type consists of very small, soft, white seeds or no mature black seeds at all, making it more consumption-friendly. They are developed with the help of hybrid breeding methods and have the same refreshing sweetness as classic seeded watermelon. Notable examples include- Triple Crown, Golden Crisp and F1 Sunshine.
Based on Size
- Mini watermelons- The personal ones
They are the cutest of all the watermelons, which are also quite easy to handle. These types of watermelon have a thin rind and is hence more fleshy. Generally, weigh around 1-3 kgs, hence also called by the name of palm melons. This compact size makes their storage easier and serving quicker in contrast to a typical big-sized watermelon. Despite being smaller, they are a powerhouse of vitamin A (approximately 570 IU), Vitamin C (8-10 mg), and have a high water content of 91-92%. Some good examples of mini watermelons are Sugar Baby, Yellow Doll, Pixie, and Mickylee etc.
- Medium-sized- The balanced one
More common in households and normally weigh around 3-8 kgs. They are again a good source of nutrients like vitamins A, C, B1 and B6 with a high sugar content. Several medium-sized varieties are Crimson sweet, Black Tail Mountain, Orange Crisp and Sweet Beauty.
- Large-sized watermelons- The jumbo type
Also known as picnic/giant type of watermelon. With an approximate weight of around 8-15 kgs, they are considered a much better option for large crowd gatherings. Popular varieties include the names of Carolina cross and Congo.
Based on Shape
- Square-shaped watermelon- The cube form
This type of watermelon is one of the most visually striking types for all the lovers of this summer fruit. These watermelons are grown in the shape of a cube, which differs from the traditional round ones. They are just normal watermelons whose young developing fruits are set inside transparent cube containers. This feature of it making them easier to stack, store and transport. The captivating shape, along with the various health benefits of this type of watermelon, makes consumers more inclined towards this type over round ones.
Due to fewer or no seeds, they are more convenient to eat without the constant need for seed removal.
Based on Flesh Colour
- Yellow/Orange type cultivars
The fruit of these types of watermelon are of medium size, oblong, light green in colour, with apricot colour flesh and black seeds. It is rich in beta-carotene rather than lycopene. Famous varieties of this honey-apricot-flavoured watermelon include Yellow Crimson, Desert King Yellow, Buttercup, Yellow Jubilee, and Yellow Flesh Black Diamond.
- White flesh cultivars
This type of fruit lacks lycopene content, which contributes to the white, pale colour of its flesh. It has a mild, sweeter, cucumber-like taste and is often cherished as an heirloom (traditional type). Typical examples are White Wonder, Cream of Saskatchewan and Sweet Siberian.
Additional Types
- Black Watermelon- As the name indicates, these types of watermelon have large size with nearly black, dark rinds, thick and bruise-resistant skin with red flesh that contains black coloured seeds. They are sweeter and weigh around 2-5 kgs to 10-22 kgs. For the gifting purpose also, this type is more popular among buyers. Common varieties are Black Diamond, Black Beauty and Black Jewel.
To Conclude
After going through the article, one will get to know that there is far more diversity in the types of watermelon. From the classic seeded to the hassle-free seedless ones, from mini size melons to the square shaped or yellow flesh cultivars, each type is known for its own charm, flavour and juicyness. This summery fruit will continue to transforms as per the consumer demand and hence there will be a each type of watermelon available according to the individual’s need. So, which type would you pick to bite into?