Cantaloupe is a sweet, tasty melon found in most grocery stores during the summer months. But did you know that there are different types of cantaloupe?
However, here’s a brief rundown of each type and how it differs from other types of cantaloupe.
So you can ensure you’re getting the right kind next time you visit the produce aisle!
Types of Cantaloupe
North American Cantaloupe
North American cantaloupes are the most popular among different types of cantaloupe in the United States. They have a light green to the orange rind and orange flesh.
Nonetheless, north American cantaloupes are typically round or oval and weigh between two and five pounds.
The most popular varieties of North American cantaloupe include the Athena, Crenshaw, and honeydew melons.
European Cantaloupe
The European cantaloupe, also known as the nutmeg melon, is a variety of cantaloupe that originated in Europe.
Its small size, round shape, and orange-yellow color characterize it. The flesh of the European cantaloupe is orange-yellow and very sweet.
It is often used in salads and as a garnish. Mexican Cantaloupe is one of the unique, different types of Cantaloupe: Mexican cantaloupes are similar to American cantaloupes but are usually smaller with an even heavier netting on the skin.
Moreover, they have smooth, dark green skin, and their flavor is reminiscent of honeydew melons.
Okinawan Orange Flesh Melon
The Okinawan Orange Flesh Melon is grown in Okinawa, Japan, and has become popular in Western countries since 2004.
Asian Cantaloupe
Asian cantaloupes are typically smaller and rounder than other Different types of cantaloupe. They have a smooth, hard outer shell with a greenish-gray hue.
Although the flesh is orange or salmon-colored and is very sweet and fragrant. Asian cantaloupes are often used in salads, adding beautiful color and delicious flavor.
Honeydew
Honeydews are one of the most popular types of cantaloupes. They are large, round, and have a smooth, greenish-gray outer shell. The flesh is white or pale green and very sweet and juicy.
Charentais Cantaloupe
Charentais cantaloupes are one of the most popular types of cantaloupe.
They’re small and round, with orange-yellow flesh and a sweet flavor. The skin is usually greenish-gray with white stripes.
Nevertheless, these cantaloupes are native to France and known as muskmelons. You can tell if you have a true Charentais cantaloupe by size and color.
But it’s often difficult to find in stores. You may need to ask your product manager for help.
Charentais Cantaloupe
Charentais cantaloupes are a type of cantaloupe originating from France’s Champagne region. The melons are small, round, and have a deep green color.
They are known for their sweet flavor and delicate aroma. Charentais cantaloupes, among other types of cantaloupe, are often used in salads or as a garnish for desserts.
Japanese Cantaloupe
The Japanese cantaloupe, also known as the yubari king, is a hybrid cantaloupe grown in greenhouses in Yubari, Hokkaido, Japan.
These Different types of cantaloupe are infrequent and expensive, with some selling for as much as $250!
The skin is smooth and orange, and the flesh is sweet and delicate. You’ll understand why they’re so prized if you’re lucky enough to try one of these melons.
Popular Relatives and Hybrids of Cantaloupes
Oriental Melon
Oriental melon is a type of cantaloupe native to China. It is also known as the yin and yang melon because it is half yellow and half green.
The Oriental melon has a sweet taste and a refreshing smell. Regardless, the flesh of the melon is orange or pink, and the seeds are black.
The Oriental melon is a good source of vitamins A and C. It is also a good fiber source, unlike other different cantaloupe types.
Honeydew Melon
Did you know that honeydew melon is a type of cantaloupe? These different types of cantaloupe are characterized by their smooth, green skin and sweet, juicy flesh.
Moreover, Honeydews are typically larger than other types of cantaloupes, making them perfect for sharing. Whether you enjoy them alone or in a fruit salad, honeydews will surely please.
Canary Melon
Canary melon, also known as winter melon, is a different type of cantaloupe with a bumpy yellow exterior and white flesh.
This variety is the largest of all cantaloupes, weighing 10-12 pounds (4.5-5.4 kg).
In contrast, Canary melons have a sweet, honeyed flavor and are often used in fruit salads or as decorations due to their eye-catching color.
Crenshaw Melon
Crenshaw melons are different cantaloupe types with greenish-yellow skin and orange flesh.
They are named after Crenshaw County in Alabama, where they originated. These melons are typically oval or oblong and weigh up to 10 pounds.
However, they have a sweet, slightly musky flavor that is often compared to honeydew melons.
When choosing a Crenshaw melon, look for one that is heavy for its size and has a dull, not shiny, appearance. Avoid any bruises or blemishes.
El Gordo Hybrid
El Gordo Hybrid is a large and round type of cantaloupe. The skin is greenish-gray with orange spots, and the flesh is orange.
It has a sweet, honeyed flavor and is very juicy. These different types of cantaloupe are grown in Spain and Mexico.
Notwithstanding, the Gordo or Gordito (Spanish for fat) is perfect for cooking.
Because it doesn’t need to be peeled before being cubed or sliced, it can also be cut into 1-inch slices and eaten as melon balls.
Besides, when choosing this type of cantaloupe, look for fruit that’s heavy in size. Feel free to sniff it if you’re at the grocery store!
Sugar Cube
A type of cantaloupe that is becoming increasingly popular is the sugar cube. As the name suggests, these different types of cantaloupe are much smaller than traditional cantaloupe. And it has a delightful flavor.
Sugar cubes are often used in fruit salads or as dessert garnishes. They’re worth trying if you’re looking for a delicious and unique cantaloupe!
Sensation
The Sensation type of cantaloupe is one of the most popular types in the world. It has bright orange flesh and is sweet.
Yet, it has a tangy flavor. This type of cantaloupe is often used in salads or as a garnish on desserts.
Charentais
Charentais cantaloupes are smaller than other types but pack a flavorful punch. However, these melons have greenish-gray skin and orange flesh that is sweet and tart.
Divergent
As one of the most popular types of cantaloupe, the Divergent has light orange flesh with a sweet flavor.
Moreover, this type of cantaloupe is often used in salads or as a healthy snack.
Hearts of Gold
Hearts of Gold cantaloupes are one of the most popular types of cantaloupes. They have a deep orange color and are very sweet.
Above all, this type of cantaloupe is often used in salads or as a garnish. The skin has a bumpy texture but can be peeled easily.
Athena Hybrid
The Athena Hybrid is a type of cantaloupe characterized by its orange flesh and green exterior.
This melon is said to have originated in Greece and was named after the Greek goddess Athena.
Notably, Athena Hybrids are known for their sweetness and juiciness.
These characteristics make them popular choices for both fresh and cooked cantaloupe.
Sarah’s Choice
Sarah’s Choice is a small and round cantaloupe with a greenish-gray outside and a salmon-colored inside. Its flavor is sweet and slightly acidic.
In addition, it is often used in salads or as a garnish. It is a good source of vitamins A and C and can be found in most grocery stores. Sarah’s Choice is a small and round type of cantaloupe.
Crenshaw
Crenshaw melons are oval and have greenish-gray skin with orange-yellow stripes. The flesh is orange and very sweet. In detail, these different types of cantaloupe can weigh up to 10 pounds each.
Honeydew
Honeydew melons are round or oblong and have green skin with white stripes. The flesh is white or greenish and very sweet. These different types of cantaloupe can weigh up to 5 pounds each.
Conclusion
There are so many different types of cantaloupe that it’s hard to know where to start. But this list comes in handy.
There’s something for everyone, from the classic cantaloupe to the more exotic varieties. In short, what are you waiting for? Get cantaloupe! You won’t regret it.
