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Moon and Stars Watermelon
Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
While the Moon and Stars watermelon can vary in size depending upon variety, it is typically a very heavy watermelon, in some cases weighing up to 50 pounds. The round to oblong fruits are dark green and speckled with an array of various sized yellow blotches giving the illusion of a night sky. The flesh, which can be red, pink-red or yellow, depending on the variety, is somewhat less dense than standard watermelons and is dotted with large brown seeds. The Moon and Stars watermelon is considerably juicy and intensely sweet with the red flesh varieties offering the highest sugar levels.
Seasons/Availability
The Moon and Stars watermelon is available in the summer.
Current Facts
The Moon and Stars watermelon is an heirloom variety of Citrullus lanatus that gets its name from the unmistakable interstellar markings on its rind. While there are several cultivars of this melon ranging in size, flavor and flesh color, the original Moon and Stars has the classic magenta-red interior and large brown seeds. Some of today’s commonly grown seed varieties are Cherokee Moon and Stars, Long Milky Way Moon and Stars, Pink Flesh Amish Moon and Stars, Yellow Flesh Moon and Stars and Van Doren’s Moon and Stars.
Nutritional Value
Like many watermelon varieties, the Moon and Stars watermelon is renowned for its hydrating properties, comprised of nearly 90 percent water. It also contains vitamins A, C and B-complex group, iron, fiber and the amino acid Arginine which has been shown to boost metabolism. They contain rich supplies of potassium which helps prevent sore muscles and lycopene known for antioxidant benefits.
Applications
Use the Moon and Stars watermelon interchangeably with other watermelon varieties. It is primarily eaten raw, simply sliced or scooped and is not considered a good juicing melon as it has a relatively high seed content making for tedious work. The cleaned watermelon flesh pairs well in salads that contain arugula, feta or goat's cheeses, fresh herbs, citrus, olive oil, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, garlic and onions, and the rind itself can even be pickled. Moon and Stars watermelons will keep up two weeks in the refrigerator.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
While some consider the flesh that surrounds the seeds in the Moon and Stars melon to be somewhat mealy, the seeds themselves are quite nutritious. In fact, in many parts of China and Africa watermelons are grown for their seeds rather than flesh.
Geography/History
Originally released in 1926 by the Peter Henderson Seed Company of New York, The Moon and Stars watermelon was lost into obscurity within a few decades. It was not until later when it was re-released in 1981 by Merle Van Doren of Macon, Missouri, that the melon truly found widespread enthusiasm. A true seedy watermelon, it is exceptionally sweet and prized by old fashioned watermelon enthusiasts for the simply enjoyment of eating a sweet and treat and spitting out its seeds.
