Tuscan melon
{{Article for deletion/dated|page=Tuscan melon|timestamp=20250419163046|year=2025|month=April|day=19|substed=yes|help=off}}
{{Unreliable sources|date=December 2024}}
{{Infobox cultivar
| name = Tuscan melon
| species = Cucumis melo
| origin = Tuscany, Italy
| image =
| group = Cantalupensis
}}
The Tuscan melon is a variety of cantaloupe melon known for its distinctive appearance and sweet flavor. This melon is a specialty of Dulcinea Farms, a large melon grower in California.{{Cite web |title="Tuscan Style Cantaloupe" |url=https://www.clovegarden.com/ingred/ml_tuskz.html |access-date=2024-12-02 |website=www.clovegarden.com}}
Originating from the Tuscany region of Italy, it is sold for its sweetness, juiciness, and covers a golden tan-hued, roughly netted exterior.{{cite web |title=Tuscan Cantaloupe |url=https://naturesproduce.com/encyclopedia/tuscan-cantaloupe|website=naturesproduce.com }}
Characteristics
Tuscan melons are typically small to medium in size, averaging 12 to 18 centimeters in diameter and 15 to 20 centimeters in length,{{Cite web |title=Tuscan Style® Cantaloupe Melons |url=https://specialtyproduce.com/produce/Tuscan_Style_Cantaloupe_Melons_2606.php |website=specialtyproduce.com |language=en}} with a round or oval shape. Their skin is segmented in grooves which change color from dark green to a golden-cream, depending on ripeness. These melons are characterized by a rich, subtly earthy and sweet flavor with a hint of muskiness, often more intense than ordinary cantaloupe varieties. The flesh is dense, smooth, typically firm and juicy, with a fine-grained texture.
Cultivation
Tuscan melons thrive in warm, temperate to subtropical climates. They require well-drained soil and regular watering. As with other melons, overwatering can lead to root rot.
It is susceptible to cucumber mosaic virus.{{Cite web |title=Melon - Melon : List of diseases and pests |url=https://ephytia.inra.fr/en/C/7629/Melon-Melon-List-of-diseases-and-pests |access-date=2025-04-20 |website=ephytia.inra.fr}}
Culinary uses
Tuscan melons can be served fresh, in salads or paired with prosciutto, smoothies or desserts.