This variety was originated by the late Capt. Josiah Lovett, of Beverly, Mass. Form roundish; size rather small,—average specimens measuring nearly the same as the Green Citron; skin yellowish-green; flesh yellow, sweet, juicy, and of good quality. Its early maturity is its principal recommendation; the Green Citron, Nutmeg, and many other varieties, surpassing it in firmness of flesh, sweetness, and general excellence.
It would probably ripen at the North, or in short seasons, when other sorts generally fail.
Citron.
Green-fleshed Citron. Green Citron.
Green Citron Melon.
Fruit nearly round, but flattened slightly at the ends,—deeply and very regularly ribbed; size medium, or rather small,—average specimens measuring about six inches in diameter, and five inches and a half in depth; skin green, and thickly netted,—when fully mature, the green becomes more soft and mellow, or of a yellowish shade; flesh green, quite thick, very juicy, and of the richest and most sugary flavor. It is an abundant bearer, quite hardy, and remarkably uniform in its quality. It is deservedly the most popular as a market sort; and for cultivation for family use, every thing considered, has few superiors.
In common with the Carolina Water-melon, the Green Citron is extensively grown at the South for shipping to the northern portions of the United States; appearing in the markets of New York and Boston three or four weeks in advance of the season of those raised in the same vicinity in the open ground.
Early Cantaloupe.
This variety possesses little merit aside from its very early maturity. It is a roundish melon, flattened a little at the ends, ribbed, and of comparatively small size; usually measuring about five inches in diameter. Skin yellowish, often spotted with green, and sometimes a little warty; rind quite thick; flesh reddish-orange, sweet, and of good flavor.