Everything you need to know about orange watermelons – the tropical twist on classic watermelon! Learn if they are real, health benefits, where to buy, cost, taste, nutrition and more about this bright orange melon.
When you think of watermelons, the usual red or yellow flesh likely comes to mind. But have you heard of orange watermelons? This bright, tropical-colored fruit is gaining popularity, spurring the question – are orange watermelons real or some kind of fake?
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In this article we will explore everything you need to know about the eye-catching orange watermelon variety – from whether it’s real, where it comes from, how it tastes, health benefits, and more.
What are Orange Watermelons?
Orange watermelons, also called orangeglo are a variety of watermelon with orange flesh instead of the typical red or yellow. They originated as a natural mutation in watermelon breeding programs crossing yellow and red varieties.
While still considered a specialty melon, orange watermelons are becoming more widely available due to consumer interest and demand. They are 100% real – not genetically modified or artificially colored.
Some other names used for orange watermelon include:
- Orangeglo
- Amarillo
- Moon and Stars
- Desert King
- Orange Crisp
The vibrant orange color comes from increased levels of antioxidants like lycopene, normally found in red watermelon.
Are Orange Watermelons Real or Fake?
Yes, orange watermelons are completely real – not fake, artificially colored, or genetically modified in any way. They occur naturally as a result of selective breeding programs, not dyes or chemicals.
When you cut into an orange watermelon, you’ll see rich, vibrant orange flesh, not the typical red or yellow. This is the result of high concentrations of antioxidants like lycopene and beta-carotene.
Orange watermelons are not OG genetically engineered. They are 100% real, natural hybrids that developed through cross-breeding existing watermelon varieties over multiple generations.
Some people mistakenly believe that orange watermelons must be fake or altered artificially because they are unfamiliar with the natural color variation that can occur in melons. However, rest assured orange watermelon is a real, nutrient-dense variety!
Where Do Orange Watermelons Come From?
The origins of the orange watermelon can be traced back to breeding programs in Texas, Oklahoma, and Florida in the late 1980s and 1990s.
Breeders crossed traditional red-fleshed melons with heirloom yellow-fleshed varieties, resulting in new hybrids with a distinctive orange color. The orange color develops best in hot climates.
Some key pioneers behind orange watermelon breeding include:
- M.C. Byles – Created “Moon and Stars” orange melon in 1926
- Harvey Galloway – Released Orangeglo in 1987 working for Rogers Seed Co.
- Dr. D.J. Gray – Developed Amarillo melon in 1990 at Texas A&M
Today, commercial production of orange watermelons focuses in California, Arizona, Texas, Mexico, Honduras, and Costa Rica. However, they can be grown in any region with hot summers reaching above 85°F.
For home gardeners interested in trying their hand at growing orange watermelon, it’s recommended to choose short-season, compact varieties suited for containers or smaller spaces. Look for seed varieties described as early maturing or suited for northern climates.
Types of Orange Watermelons
There are a few main varieties of orange watermelons found at specialty grocers or farmers markets:
- Moon and Stars: Round melon with dark green rind and yellow “star” pattern. Orange flesh with a mild, sweet flavor.
- Amarillo: Oblong melon with light green and dark green stripes. Crisp, bright orange flesh.
- Desert King: Large oblong melon with light green rind. Vibrant orange flesh perfect for eating fresh.
- Orange Crisp: Small, round melon with thin rind, sweet orange flesh, and a crisp texture.
- Orangeglo: Round, medium-sized melon with semi-sweet orange flesh.
- Sugar Baby: Early maturing, small round size, bright orange flesh. Good for containers.
- Orange Doll: Compact vines, softball-sized fruit with crunchy texture.
- Orange Sherbet: Heirloom home garden variety, orange-yellow wavy rind.
The rind color, shape, plant size, sweetness, and texture varies among orange watermelon varieties. Try sampling different types to discover your favorites!
How Does Orange Watermelon Taste?
The orange watermelon has a delicious tropical fruit flavor. The flesh is sweet, fruity, and refreshing, just like the traditional red and yellow varieties. However, it tends to be less juicy and watery.
Notes of mango, pineapple, and citrus add complexity to the orange melon’s flavor. It satisfies with a creamy, dense texture and undertones of sweetness.
Many people describe the orange watermelon as sweeter than red and more flavorful than yellow. The vibrant color comes from high levels of antioxidants that also enhance the taste.
Here’s how some people who have tried orange watermelon describe the flavor:
- “It tastes like a Creamsicle frozen dessert, with an orange sherbet-like flavor.”
- ” The hints of tropical fruit make me think of pineapple and mango that are still juicy.”
- “It’s sweeter than regular watermelon with a mild honeydew melon aftertaste.”
- ” It is dense and creamy, like a treat, and not as watery as red watermelon.”
- ” It tastes like citrus and berries, which cools you down on a hot day.”
The consensus is orange watermelon is a real treat for the taste buds! The unique tropical aroma and silky texture take watermelon flavor to the next level.
How Does it Compare to Red and Yellow Melons?
Orange watermelon has some noticeable differences when compared to the common red and yellow varieties:
- Sweeter with more complex flavor than red or yellow
- Less juicy & watery – has a creamier, dense texture
- More tropical fruit undertones like mango and pineapple
- Vibrant orange color from antioxidant content
- Smaller, edible seeds that are easy to chew
- Thicker, firmer rind that’s less prone to splitting
- Shorter shelf life – 5-7 days after cutting
- Higher price tag as a specialty melon
Overall, orange watermelon sits somewhere in between red and yellow – taking the best qualities of each. It satisfies with intense sweetness tempered by tropical fruit flavors.
Mini taste test: Try samples of red, yellow and orange watermelon side-by-side to experience the subtle differences. Take notes on sweetness, juiciness, texture, seed size, and flavor impressions.
Health Benefits of Orange Watermelon
What makes orange watermelon really shine is its nutritional content. Each juicy bite packs the following health benefits:
- Vitamin A & C – Aids immunity and eyesight.
- Potassium – It helps keep blood pressure and heart rate in check..
- Lycopene – A potent antioxidant reducing cancer risk.
- Citrulline – Amino acid that may lower blood pressure.
- Hydration – With a 92% water content.
- Folate – Essential for cell growth and pregnancy.
- Vitamin B6 – Important for brain development & immunity.
Research suggests the higher levels of antioxidants like lycopene in orange watermelon can reduce inflammation, heart disease, and the risk of developing certain cancers.
One study found people who ate watermelon had:
- 12% lower heart attack risk
- 33% lower risk of early death
- 31% reduced risk of stroke
With even more antioxidants than red or yellow, orange watermelon can provide powerful protective effects. It’s a great way to increase your fruit intake and nutrient consumption.
Try adding orange watermelon to:
- Fruit salads
- Smoothies
- Overnight oats
- Yogurt bowls
- Salsa
- Agua fresca
- Fruit skewers
Where You Can Buy Orange Watermelons
While availability is increasing, orange watermelon still belongs to the specialty melon category. Here are some places to find it:
- Specialty grocery stores – Whole Foods, Sprouts, Fresh Market
- Local farmers markets – Look for it in summer & early fall
- Fruit stands & produce markets – Sometimes have hard-to-find varieties
- Online retailers – Melissa’s Produce, FreshDirect
- Farm subscription boxes – Get fresh-picked oranges delivered
- Seed companies – Buy seeds to grow your own
Peak season for orange watermelon is July through September. Check with your local grocer or search online vendors if you have no luck finding it nearby.
Can’t find it? Here are some tips:
- Ask your local grocer or farmers market to carry it
- Special order through online grocery delivery services
- Check international or Asian markets for exotic fruits
- Visit produce stands, fruit shops, and food co-ops
- Join a CSA farm box program and request orange watermelon
Pricing Compared to Red and Yellow
With its boutique status, orange watermelon demands a higher price tag than conventional red and yellow varieties. Pricing breakdown:
- Red watermelon – $0.50 – $2 per pound
- Yellow watermelon – $1 – $3 per pound
- Orange watermelon – $3 – $6 per pound
When buying fresh orange watermelon, expect to pay 2-3 times more by weight compared to red and yellow. But fans say the vibrant color, flavor, and nutrients are well worth the splurge.
Here are some tips for getting the best deal on orange watermelons:
- Buy in season during peak summer months
- Check for sales at specialty grocers
- Buy direct from a local farmer or CSA
- Opt for small or “personal” sized melons
- Shop at international or ethnic markets
- Use discounts or coupons when available
- Watch for price drops as season ends
While more expensive than conventional types, many people find the unique tropical taste and nutrition of orange watermelon makes it worth the premium price.
Nutrition & Calories in Orange Melon
One cup diced orange watermelon (152g) contains:
- 45 calories
- 12g carbohydrates
- 1g protein
- 0g fat
- 270mg potassium (6% DV)
- 20mg vitamin C (25% DV)
- 3,840 IU vitamin A (7% DV)
- 5% DV folate
- 5% DV vitamin B6
With only 45 calories per serving, it makes for a nutrient-dense, low-calorie treat. The high water content and potassium help you rehydrate.
Orange watermelon has slightly higher levels of certain nutrients versus red or yellow:
| Nutrient | Red | Yellow | Orange |
| Vitamin A | 28% DV | 13% DV | 7% DV |
| Vitamin C | 25% DV | 35% DV | 25% DV |
| Lycopene | 25 mg | 2 mg | 10 mg |
Growing Orange Watermelons
Want to try growing your own orange watermelons? Here are some tips:
- Climate: Needs hot weather (80-90°F) with long sunny days
- Time to harvest: 70-95 days from seed to ripe melon
- Soil: Well-draining soil, pH between 5.5-7.0
- Sun: At least 6+ hours of direct sunlight
- Seeds: Soak seeds overnight before planting
- Germination: Keep soil moist and 75-85°F for best sprouting
- Spacing: At least 2-3 ft apart in rows 5-6 ft apart
- Support: Use slings to cradle large melons as they grow
- Pruning: Prune early flowers to promote larger fruits
Look for short-season orange watermelon varieties suited for containers or smaller spaces. Be sure to provide plenty of heat, sunlight, and moisture for happy vines and sweetest melons.
Storing & Handling Orange Watermelon
Follow these tips for safely storing and handling your orange watermelon:
- Whole melons keep 2-3 weeks in cool, dry place
- Cut melons should be refrigerated in sealed container
- Fridge life: 5-7 days maximum after prepping
- Freezing: Puree flesh, freeze in airtight bags up to 1 year
- Drying: Cut into strips, dehydrate, and store in jars
- Signs of spoilage: Mold, pitting, unpleasant smell
- Safety: Always wash rind before cutting to prevent contamination
For longest shelf life, store whole uncut melons at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Once sliced, orange watermelon should be tightly sealed and consumed within 3-5 days.
FAQ’s About Orange Watermelons
Is orange watermelon also sweet like Red?
Yes, it has a very sweet, fruity tropical taste.
Where can I buy an orange watermelon?
stores that specialize like Whole Foods. Also farmers markets in summer & fall.
Is orange watermelon safe to Consume?
Yes, it is perfectly safe & nutritious.
What is Another Name of orange watermelons?
Orangeglo, Moon and Stars, Desert King, or Amarillo.
Where These orange watermelon come from?
Orange watermelons basically came from US regions like Texas, California, Mexico originally.
Is there any purple orange watermelon?
No, watermelons only naturally occur in shades of red, yellow, orange, and green.
Can My dogs eat orange watermelon?
Yes, dogs can eat it in moderation. Give them the flesh only, not the rind or seeds.
How does the orange watermelon taste like?
Orange watermelons are considered as Sweet tropical fruits and taste like pineapple and mango.
Where can I get orange watermelon seeds to grow?
Online or offline seed sellers or specialty nurseries.
why is my watermelon is orange from inside
Your orange colored watermelon may be an “Orange Fleshed Honeydew” or a similar variety with orange or red flesh. Its color comes from beta-carotene, unlike the more frequent red or pink-fleshed watermelons.
How do you pick a ripe orange watermelon?
On one of the side you should see an area that is creamy yellow. Thump to hear a deep hollow sound.
Conclusion
While still considered a specialty melon, orange watermelon popularity is on the rise. With its brilliant color, sweet flavor, and impressive nutrient profile, it’s easy to see why foodies are intrigued.
Next time you spot orange watermelon at the store or market, grab a wedge. Whether you prefer it in a fruit salad, smoothie, or on its own, it’s a delicious way to add some nutrition and flair to your plate.
Let us know if you give orange watermelon a taste! We’d love to hear your impressions of this unique tropical twist on a classic summertime treat.
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