Domestic Encyclopædia (1802)/Melon, the Water

MELON, the Water, or Cucumis Anguria, L. though properly a species of the former, is by some considered as a distinct genus of exotic plants, comprising three species, of which one only is known in Britain, by the name of Citrul. It is cultivated in all the warm countries of Europe, and also in Asia, Africa, and America; where its salubrious and cooling fruit is greatly esteemed.

The water-melon is propagated from seed, in a manner similar to the former; it requires, however, a more open exposure to the air; and, during cold nights, it will be advisable to cover the glasses with mats, in order to keep the bed warm.—In its properties, this species nearly resembles the preceding; but, partaking more of the nature of cucumbers, water-melons require a larger proportion of spice and wine; as otherwise they are apt to induce flatulency or diarrhœa.