Maori watermelon — a medium-early, high-yielding French hybrid, suitable for cultivation both in open ground and under cover. The vegetation period is 70–75 days from transplanting seedlings, allowing harvest within relatively short timeframes. The plant exhibits good resistance to diseases and stressful weather conditions, including drought and high temperatures, and can form fruit set even under adverse conditions and inadequate care. The leaf cover is dense and abundant, providing reliable protection for the fruit from sunburn.
Maori watermelon fruits are large, oval-shaped, weighing 4–5 kg and up to 25 cm in length. The rind is bright yellow with a clearly defined netted pattern, giving the fruits an attractive appearance. The flesh is creamy-white, very tender and juicy, with high sugar content — 12–17% — providing a rich sweet flavor and pleasant aroma. The stem attachment is strong, preventing cracking and overripening during extended harvest periods. The medium-sized seed cavity allows easy consumption of the watermelon in fresh form.
Maori watermelon retains well in the field and withstands long-distance transportation without loss of quality. It is recommended to store the harvest in cool, shaded areas to maximize freshness. This hybrid is designed for gourmets who appreciate the combination of high yield and exceptional taste, making it an excellent choice for commercial use and home consumption.