Bailan melon facts for kids
The Bailan melon is a special kind of melon. It grows near Lanzhou, a big city in Gansu province in China. This melon is a type of honeydew melon. It is usually round and has white skin. Inside, the flesh is sweet and can be white or light green.
Sometimes, in pictures, the melons look light yellow, orange, or white. Their inside flesh might be light green or apricot yellow. This makes them look similar to other melons in the same family, like muskmelons. Bailan melons are also quite heavy because their inside is very dense. Just like other honeydew melons, the Bailan melon has lots of Vitamin C and protein, which are good for you!
Where Does the Bailan Melon Come From?
People in China say that the Bailan melon seeds were brought to China a long time ago. This happened in the 1940s. An American named Henry A. Wallace visited China. He was the Vice President of the United States. He gave melon seeds to the local people.
Henry A. Wallace knew a lot about farming. He even started a big company that sells seeds, called Pioneer Hi-Bred.
Why is it Called "Hualaishi"?
Because Henry A. Wallace brought the seeds, people in China sometimes call this melon Hualaishi. This name sounds a lot like "Wallace"! It's a way to remember who shared these special melon seeds with them.
What Makes Bailan Melons Healthy?
Like other melons, Bailan melons are full of good things for your body. They have natural compounds like polyphenols and carotenoids. These are like tiny helpers that keep you healthy. Eating melons can help prevent long-term sicknesses. They are a natural way to stay strong and well!
