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Ramps
The wild ramp, AKA wild leek, botanical name Allium tricoccum, is a flowering perennial plant that grows in clusters. It is a member of the Allium family along with onions and leeks
Calamondin Limes
The Calamondin lime is a cross between a sour, loose skinned mandarin and a kumquat, therefore technically making it an orangequat.
Salanova® Lettuces
Salanova® lettuce is a full-sized variety developed for the baby lettuce market. Botanically these varieties are scientifically known as Lactuca sativa.
Description/Taste
The Kiran watermelon and Kiran No.2 watermelon have a smooth, dark green and relatively thin outer rind with subtle dark green to black stripes running the length of the fruit. The Kiran No.2 is a slightly darker color with fainter stripes than the original Kiran and also grows to be slightly larger at full maturity. The Kiran watermelon can be globular or oblong in shape and has a thinner inner rind than other varieties of watermelon. Kiran watermelon has a vibrant pink to red flesh with dark brown-black seeds. Its juicy flesh is sweet at 12 to 14 percent sugar content and it offers a slightly grainy texture.
Seasons/Availability
Kiran watermelon are available throughout the year in tropical regions with a peak season in the summer months.
Current Facts
The Kiran watermelon is a variety of Citrullus lanatus and a member of the Cucurbitaceae family. Rarely found in markets outside of Asia, the seeds for the Kiran watermelon are marketed and sold by “Known You Seed Pvt Ltd” of India. They have developed two different varieties of the Kiran watermelon, Kiran No.2 and the original Kiran, each varying slightly in size and coloration.
Nutritional Value
Like many watermelon varieties, the Kiran watermelon is renowned for its hydrating properties, comprised of nearly 90 percent water. They also contain 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 Kiran watermelon raw and with a slight chill, similarly to other sweet melon varieties. They may be cut into cubes or scooped with a melon-baller, and added into fruit salads or green salads. Skewer the pieces with other contrasting colored melons and alternate with feta cheese and prosciutto. Puree and use to make beverages, syrups, sauces, soups and frozen desserts. The flavor of the Kiran watermelon pairs well with arugula, basil, mint, cilantro, cucumber, lime, red onion, pineapple, jalapeño, balsamic, pine nuts and feta.
Geography/History
Kiran type watermelons were developed in India by the company “Known You Seed Pvt. Ltd”. Known You Seed sells and distributes the seeds through their 10 branch offices located throughout India. Kiran watermelons are an early bearing variety requiring on average 102 days till harvest after sowing. Like many watermelon varieties the Kiran type watermelon does best in tropical and subtropical regions that get a significant amount of heat and sunshine and can thrive with very little precipitation.
