Even the name for the modern watermelon—Citrullus lanatus—is wrong. Lanatus means “hairy” in Latin and was originally the name applied to the fuzz-covered citron melon (Cirtrullus amarus).
Does watermelon have another name?
Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is a flowering plant species of the Cucurbitaceae family and the name of its edible fruit.
| Watermelon | |
|---|---|
| Genus: | Citrullus |
| Species: | C. lanatus |
| Binomial name | |
| Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai |
Where did the name watermelon originate?
The watermelon fruit was introduced in Europe by the 13th century, by the Moorish invaders, and the word made its first appearance in the English language, in John Florio’s compilation of Italian proverbs A World of Words: “Cicómero, a cucumber or water Melon.”
Why is watermelon called Citrullus?
The scientific name of the watermelon derived from both Greek and Latin roots. The Citrullus part comes from a Greek word “citrus” which is a reference to the fruit. The lanatus part is Latin, and has the meaning of being wooly, referring to the small hairs on the stems and leaves of the plant.
How do the British say watermelon?
Below is the UK transcription for ‘watermelon’:
- Modern IPA: wóːtəmɛlən.
- Traditional IPA: ˈwɔːtəmelən.
- 4 syllables: “WAW” + “tuh” + “mel” + “uhn”
Is watermelon a real fruit?
watermelon, (Citrullus lanatus), succulent fruit and vinelike plant of the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae), native to tropical Africa and cultivated around the world. The fruit contains vitamin A and some vitamin C and is usually eaten raw. The rind is sometimes preserved as a pickle.
Who made the first watermelon?
The first recorded watermelon harvest occurred in Egypt nearly 5000 years ago. Because of its great water content, early explorers used watermelons as canteens. The first cookbook published in the United States in 1796 contains a recipe for pickled watermelon rinds.
Can dogs have watermelon?
The answer is yes, with a couple of precautions. First, seeds could cause an intestinal blockage, so make sure you remove them. It’s also a good idea to remove the rind because it can cause gastrointestinal upset.
What is the history of watermelon?
The origins of watermelon have been traced back to the deserts of southern Africa, where it still grows wild today. The ancestor of the modern watermelon is a tough, drought-tolerant plant prized for its ability to store water for tribes crossing the Kalahari Desert.
What country is watermelon from?
Though we think of watermelon as mainly an American food item, especially in the Southern states, the fruit actually hails from Africa, namely Egypt.
What fruit is native to America?
— blueberries, cranberries, huckleberries, farkleberries have their origins in North America although they are now cultivated worldwide. Rubus spp. — blackberries, dewberries, raspberries. There are also species that have origins in the Old World.
Is watermelon a melon or a berry?
The elongated tough-skinned fruits of the family Cucurbitaceae, including watermelons, cucumbers, and gourds, are a type of berry referred to as pepos.
How do Syrians say watermelon?
دَلاّع [dallāʻ] {noun} [Northafr.]
Is watermelon Man made?
As generations of people selectively planted seeds from fruits that were larger and tastier, they created the sweet, red watermelon we know today.
Is watermelon good for diabetes?
Watermelon is safe for people with diabetes to eat in moderation. However, it is best to consume watermelon and other high GI fruits alongside foods that contain plenty of nutritious fats, fiber, and protein.
When did watermelon become seedless?
The first seedless watermelons were produced in 1939 by Kihara and Nishiyama, researchers at the Japanese National Institute of Genetics. A normal watermelon is diploid, which means it has two sets of chromosomes (the thread-like structures that carry an organism’s genes).
What is the oldest fruit in the world?
Figs – the world’s oldest fruits
Fig trees have been grown since ancient times, which is why figs are often referred to as the oldest fruits known to man.
What type of fruit is watermelon?
Get ready to have your fruit-loving minds blown: Watermelons are berries. And so are cucumbers, cantaloupes, squash and pumpkins. Scientifically called pepos, these fruits fall into a specific category of berry—one with a tough rind, multiple flat seeds and pulpy flesh.
What fruit can dogs not eat?
What Fruits Are Not Good for Dogs?
- Avocado. This fruit contains persin, a toxin that makes dogs throw up and have diarrhea.
- Cherries. Cherry pits contain cyanide.
- Grapes. Grapes can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs.
- Tomatoes. The green parts of the tomato plant have solanine, which is toxic to dogs.
Can dog eat a Apple?
Yes, dogs can eat apples. Apples are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber for your dog. They are low in protein and fat, making them the perfect snack for senior dogs. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core first.
Can dogs eat popcorn?
Plain, air-popped popcorn is safe for dogs to eat in small quantities. Buttered popcorn or popcorn with other toppings is not safe for your dog on a regular basis, although eating a few dropped pieces here and there probably won’t hurt him.
Justin Shelton is a professional cook. He’s been in the industry for over 10 years, and he loves nothing more than creating delicious dishes for others to enjoy. Justin has worked in some of the best kitchens in the country, and he’s always looking for new challenges and ways to improve his craft. When he’s not cooking, Justin enjoys spending time with his wife and son. He loves exploring new restaurants and trying out different cuisines.