How much would you pay for a watermelon? $5, $10? How about $6,000?
For one very special type of watermelon, some people are willing to pay a fortune. Why? Well…this isn’t you’re typical watermelon that makes its way to family picnics at the beach or a backyard BBQ. It might look like a regular melon at first, but once this fruit is fully ripened, it will be shiny, black, and fit for a queen.
This is the Densuke black watermelon from Japan and it is truly one-of-a-kind.
Some say the sweet flavor and crunch are unparalleled. ‘The Densuke watermelon is considered the most expensive watermelon in the world and it can cost a minimum of $250 up to $6,000 each.’ – YouTube – Noal Farm
The Densuke black watermelons are known for their glossy black exterior and super-sweet taste and are grown on the northern island of Hokkaido.
In a video that has gone viral, the growers of this exceptional fruit give us a glimpse of how these melons have become so sought after.
The seeds are harvested and once the tiny sprouts appear, they are paired with a sprout of another melon for hybridization. They are then carefully watched and cared for till the plants are ready to be replanted to allow more room to grow.
This coveted watermelon earns its value for a few reasons.
They are grown in a very specific way to achieve the best result. In Japan, producing the Densuke black watermelon takes dedication, constant care, and a large space for cultivation. Black watermelons take months of meticulous maintenance and this is part of the reason it has such a hefty price tag.
In Japanese culture, there is also an interesting history behind why fruit is so cherished and expensive.
They are delicious, expensive, and hold a particular significance to people in Japan. Fruit is a favorite for gift-giving and the more perfect the better.
According to Japantruly.com, “the reason why Japanese melons are so expensive is that aristocratic warriors (samurais) would offer melons or tangerines to their leader or mentor as s sign of deep appreciation and loyalty. This practice with time became ingrained in Japan’s culture of exchanging gifts. Another reason why Japanese melons are so expensive is that the farmers invest a lot of their time and energy to grow the perfect melons.”
At first, the melons are green but as they mature, the skin turns darker.
The black watermelons even have their own special packaging.
Once the black watermelons have reached prime ripeness, they are plucked immediately and polished to perfection. The smaller melons are sold for around $250 but the best of the best are sold at auction with a stamp of authenticity from the grower. Prices skyrocket for these beauties and their special packaging helps to keep these melons looking absolutely perfect.
‘Although it is mostly grown in Japan, the Densuke black watermelon seeds are sold commercially in Europe’ – thegardenmagazine.com
Who knows…maybe you will be enjoying a black watermelon at your next backyard get-together.
Now watch the video on how these rare black watermelons are cultivated and sold.
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