Navajo Winter Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus)

Navajo Winter Watermelon (Citrullus Ianatus): In Italy, "winter watermelon" sometimes refers to lemon squash (Cucurbita citrullus), due to its shelf life rather than its growing season. In this case, it's a true watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), the most cold-resistant of the species. In fact, two harvests a year are possible in almost all Italian regions, partly due to its early ripening. It's also suitable for high-altitude cultivation, where growing other watermelons is extremely difficult without the aid of a greenhouse. It's also particularly tolerant to water stress (periods of lack of irrigation) and common watermelon diseases. Its thick rind allows for a long shelf life, and the pink flesh is sweet and crunchy. The plant isn't overly vigorous and isn't overly demanding on soil.