Watermelon is not only a delicious and refreshing fruit, but it also comes with some surprising and fun facts that you may not know! From its history to its health benefits, watermelon has more to offer than just being a summertime treat. Here are some fun and interesting facts about watermelon:
1. Watermelon Is Over 90% Water
Watermelon lives up to its name—it’s made up of about 92% water. This high water content makes it a great hydrating fruit, perfect for hot summer days when staying hydrated is essential. A single slice of watermelon can quench your thirst and help keep you refreshed.
2. Watermelon Is Actually a Vegetable
While it’s typically classified as a fruit, watermelon is technically a vegetable. It belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, which also includes cucumbers, pumpkins, and squash. This family is known for producing plants that grow on vines and have edible flesh.
3. There Are Over 1,200 Varieties of Watermelon
Watermelons come in many different shapes, sizes, and colors. In fact, there are over 1,200 varieties of watermelon grown worldwide. Some of the most popular types include seedless, picnic, icebox, and yellow watermelons, and they come in colors ranging from the familiar red to pink, orange, and even yellow.
4. Watermelon Has Been Around for Over 5,000 Years
Watermelons have a long history and are believed to have been first cultivated in Africa around 5,000 years ago. The earliest records of watermelon cultivation date back to ancient Egypt, where watermelons were grown along the Nile River. In fact, watermelons were often depicted in hieroglyphs and even found in the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs.
5. You Can Eat the Rind!
While most people enjoy the sweet, juicy flesh of watermelon, the rind (the green outer layer) is also edible and can be used in a variety of dishes. You can pickle watermelon rind, make smoothies, or even fry it for a tasty treat. It’s packed with nutrients and fiber, making it a great addition to your diet.
6. Watermelon Was Once Used as a Water Source
In ancient times, watermelons were used as a source of hydration in places where water was scarce. The high water content made them an important resource for travelers and nomadic peoples. In fact, watermelons were sometimes hollowed out and used as containers for holding water!
7. The Largest Watermelon Ever Grown Weighed Over 350 Pounds
The largest watermelon ever grown weighed an incredible 350.5 pounds (159 kg). It was grown in Arkansas, USA, in 2005 by a farmer named Chris Kent. Imagine trying to carve that giant melon! This record-breaking watermelon is just one of many examples of how large and diverse watermelons can be.
8. Watermelon Is a Natural Source of Lycopene
Watermelon is rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that gives the fruit its red color. Lycopene has been linked to many health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain cancers, improving heart health, and supporting skin health. Interestingly, cooked watermelon may provide even more lycopene than raw, as heat can help release this powerful antioxidant.
9. Watermelon Seeds Are Edible
While many people avoid watermelon seeds, they’re actually edible! The seeds can be roasted, salted, and enjoyed as a healthy snack, much like sunflower seeds. Some people even grind them into flour for baking purposes. Additionally, watermelon seeds are packed with protein, healthy fats, and minerals like magnesium and zinc.
10. Watermelon Can Help Reduce Muscle Soreness
Watermelon isn’t just for hydration—it may also help with muscle recovery. This is due to an amino acid called citrulline, found in high amounts in watermelon. Citrulline has been shown to improve blood flow and reduce muscle soreness, making watermelon a popular post-workout snack.
11. Watermelon Was Once Used as a Decorative Element
In ancient China, watermelon rinds were sometimes carved and used as decorative elements during festivals and celebrations. This practice was later adopted by many cultures worldwide, and watermelon carving remains a popular activity at summer parties and festivals today.
12. Watermelon Can Be a Pink or Yellow Color
While red is the most common color for watermelon flesh, yellow watermelon is also a variety that is less commonly seen. Yellow watermelon is just as sweet and juicy as its red counterpart, but with a slightly milder flavor. In addition to yellow, there are also orange watermelons that offer a different color and flavor.
13. The White Flesh Is Edible Too
Some varieties of watermelon have white flesh, which is typically found in older, more mature melons. While it’s not as sweet as the red or yellow flesh, it’s still safe to eat and contains nutrients like fiber and vitamins.
14. Watermelon Seeds Can Grow New Watermelons
If you save your watermelon seeds, you can actually grow a new watermelon plant. While seedless watermelons are widely available, seeded varieties are still the norm in many parts of the world. Planting watermelon seeds in the right conditions will give you your very own watermelon crop, though it may take some time!
Conclusion
Watermelon is more than just a refreshing treat for summer—it’s a fruit packed with history, health benefits, and interesting features. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack, experimenting with the rind in your recipes, or marveling at the different varieties, watermelon continues to surprise us with its versatility and fun facts. So, the next time you slice into a watermelon, you can appreciate it not only for its taste but also for its fascinating background and unique properties!
