FruitWatermelon
Moon & Stars Watermelon
Moon & Stars Watermelon is a magnificent heirloom variety that was saved from extinction by dedicated seed savers in the 1980s after disappearing from commerce for decades. Named for its distinctive dark green rind mottled with yellow spots resembling celestial bodies, this variety produces 25-30 pound melons with sweet fuschia-red flesh in 90-99 days. Hardy across zones 3-13, these vining plants create their own artistic display in the garden, with even their leaves showing the characteristic yellow mottling.
Photo © True Leaf Market
Growing Conditions
USDA Zone
3-13
Sunlight
Full Sun
Water
Moderate
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy Loam, Fertile
Growth Stats
18 in
Height
TypeVining
Spacing
36
Plant Profile
Sunlight
Full Sun
Water
Moderate
Zones
3-13
Size
18in H x ?in W
Growth
—
Care
Moderate
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Highlights
This majestic heirloom stands out with its dramatic appearance and compelling backstory of near-extinction and rescue. The dark green rinds are decorated with yellow mottling that gives the variety its celestial name, while the leaves mirror this unique pattern. Moon & Stars watermelons grow into substantial 25-30 pound fruits with exceptionally sweet fuschia-red flesh that's prized by those who appreciate traditional seeded varieties. Beyond their beauty and flavor, these melons carry cultural significance in regions where watermelon seeds are eaten as a delicacy, making them a meaningful choice for gardeners interested in food traditions.
Common Uses
These substantial watermelons excel as fresh eating melons for summer gatherings, with their sweet fuschia-red flesh perfect for slicing and serving. The large, numerous seeds are particularly valued for eating as a nutritious snack or incorporating into traditional dishes. The impressive size and striking appearance of Moon & Stars melons make them showstoppers at farmers markets and family reunions, while their exceptional sweetness despite their large size makes them ideal for those who prefer traditional seeded watermelons over modern seedless varieties.
Growing Timeline
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Care Instructions
Start Indoors
Start seeds indoors in individual 4-inch peat pots 3-4 weeks before the final frost date. Plant 2 seeds per pot, 1/2 to 1 inch deep in warm potting soil, keeping soil temperature at least 50°F for germination. Grow seedlings under warm, dry conditions with strong light, fertilizing with balanced liquid fertilizer. Once seedlings develop 1-2 sets of true leaves, thin to the strongest plant per pot. Avoid letting starts become root-bound.
Transplant Outdoors
Transplant carefully to avoid root disturbance after all danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Space transplants 36 inches apart in rows 120 inches apart. Use row covers initially if temperatures are still cool.
Direct Sow
In warmer climates, direct sow 4-6 seeds in raised hills after soil temperature reaches 50°F, spacing seeds 5-6 inches apart. Thin to 2-3 strongest plants per hill after germination, which occurs in 4-10 days.
Harvesting
Moon & Stars watermelons are ready for harvest in 90-99 days when the tendril closest to the fruit turns brown and dries completely, and the light patch on the bottom changes from cream to tan or yellow. The stem will lose its green color and become completely dry when the melon is ripe. Harvest by cutting the stem near the base with garden shears rather than pulling. Pick melons in the cool of morning and chill quickly for best flavor.
Growing Calendar
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Companion Planting
Ecology & Traits
Edible
Scientific Classification
Citrullus lanatus
Family
Cucurbitaceae
Genus
Citrullus
Growth Habit
Vining
Native Status
L48 (I)PR (I)
History & Origin
“Originally introduced as 'Sun, Moon and Stars' by Peter Henderson and Company in 1924, this heirloom variety vanished from commercial markets and was presumed extinct until 1981. That year, Kent Whealy, co-founder of Seed Savers Exchange, was contacted by Merle Van Doren of Macon, Missouri, who had been quietly growing the variety and shared seeds from his harvest. This chance connection saved Moon & Stars from disappearing forever. The Southern Exposure Seed Exchange reintroduced the variety as 'Amish Moon & Stars' in 1987, along with a yellow-fleshed version, bringing this celestial beauty back to gardeners across America.”