Banana melon
{{Short description|Melon cultivar}}
{{unreliable sources|date=January 2021}}
{{Infobox cultivar
| name = Banana melon
| genus = Cucumis
| species = Cucumis melo
| cultivar = 'Banana'
| origin = United States
}}
The banana melon is an heirloom melon in the genus Cucumis originating from around 1880 in the United States.{{Cite web|url=https://www.victoryseeds.com/melon_banana.html|title=Banana Melon - Heirloom, Open-Pollinated, non-Hybrid Victory Seeds®|website=Victory Seeds}}
Description
It weighs {{convert|5|-|10|lb|kg|abbr=off}} and measures {{convert|16|-|24|in|cm|abbr=off|sp=us}} in length. Its name derives from its elongated, pointed shape and yellow rind, reminiscent of a banana, as well as its strong banana-like scent. Its soft flesh is salmon-colored and is said to have a very sweet flavor.{{cite web |title=Banana, Melon Seeds - Urban Farmer Seeds |url=https://www.ufseeds.com/product/banana-melon-seeds/#:~:text=The%20Banana%20Melon%20gets%20its,and%20perfect%20for%20specialty%20markets |website=Urban Farmer Seeds |access-date=19 January 2021 |ref=Banana, Melon Seeds - Urban Farmer}} It was a popular variety in the late 19th century, being noted by James J. H. Gregory as attracting much attention at agricultural fairs.
Availability
Seeds of the plant are available through several online sources.