Is Watermelon a Fruit or a Vegetable? Do you have confusion? If you are not sure about it, then keep on reading!
Confused about the debate over “Is Watermelon a Fruit or a Vegetable”? Well, fret not; we are here to help you out!
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Is Watermelon a Fruit?
The scientific definition of a fruit is any mature ovary of a flowering plant, usually containing seeds. By this definition, a watermelon is a fruit because it develops from the ovary of a flower and contains seeds.
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Is Watermelon a Berry?
Specifically, watermelon is a pepo, which is a type of berry with a hard rind and fleshy interior. However, the culinary definition of a fruit is often based on taste and usage rather than botanical classification.
By this definition, watermelon is often considered a fruit because it is sweet and eaten as a dessert or snack.
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Is Watermelon a Vegetable?
Watermelons are versatile, as they can also be used in savory dishes such as salads and salsas, which may lead some people to consider them a vegetable.
In 2006, the Oklahoma Legislature declared watermelon as the state vegetable
Despite this legal ruling, the scientific classification of watermelon as a fruit has not changed. Watermelon is still considered a fruit by botanists and horticulturists.
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Is Watermelon a Fruit or a Vegetable: From a Botanical Perspective 
In botany, any fruits or vegetables are set apart depending on their botanical origin. For instance, watermelon is propagated in the same manner like other vegetables are grown. Also, watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), a flowering plant, belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. The Cucurbitaceae family also includes cucumber, melon, calabash, squash, and pumpkin. Thus, it is classified as a vegetable.
In contrast to this, the watermelon plant evolved from a vine native to Southern Africa, due to which it is also considered a fruit.
After having insight into this years-old debate on “Is Watermelon a fruit or a Vegetable” – you won’t be shocked much that the Watermelon is a state vegetable of Oklahoma!
For purposes of counting, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) agrees with the Oklahoma Legislature in calling the watermelon a vegetable. In the national agricultural census conducted by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), watermelons are counted as vegetables.
Is Watermelon a Fruit or a Vegetable: Conclusion
Watermelon is a fruit from a botanical standpoint because it develops from the ovary of a flower and contains seeds. However, its culinary classification may vary depending on how it is used and consumed.
Whether you consider it a fruit or a vegetable, there is no denying the delicious and refreshing taste of this summertime favorite.
