Tag: Citrullus lanatus

First cultivated in Africa nearly 5,000 years ago, many people wonder: is Kalahari melon the same as watermelon? While they are related, the wild Kalahari melon is actually the evolutionary ancestor of the sweet, red watermelon we know today, with distinct differences in taste, appearance, and purpose.

The fruit with the highest water content, watermelon, is composed of about 92% water. While there is no fruit formally named the 'water water fruit,' this juicy melon is the most logical candidate for the name due to its hydrating properties and refreshing flavor. A common summertime favorite, watermelon has a long history and offers an array of health benefits beyond its delicious taste.

Archaeological evidence suggests that egusi seeds have been cultivated in West Africa for over 5,000 years, primarily for their high-protein, oil-rich seeds. While often generically called 'melon seeds,' the question of what plant is egusi made from points to several distinct species, particularly specialized seed melons.

The first recorded watermelon harvest occurred nearly 5,000 years ago in Egypt, demonstrating its ancient history as a cultivated crop. Discovering what family a watermelon is in reveals its surprising connections to other well-known garden vegetables and fruits.