Brazilian watermelons and 'toad skin' go on sale in Tyumen stores

In Tyumen, supermarkets have surprisingly begun offering watermelons and melons, marking an early start to the season for these summer fruits.

Feb 10, 2026

Shoppers in Tyumen were surprised to find watermelons and melons available in mid-winter.
Source:
Yulia Maltseva / 72.RU

In Tyumen stores, in the midst of winter, the season for melons and gourds has unexpectedly begun. Local residents have noticed watermelons and melons on the shelves of a popular chain. Where is this summer sweetness being brought to Tyumen from?

Experts describe the Brazilian watermelons as having a sweet taste and early maturation.
Source:
Yulia Maltseva / 72.RU

‘This is the Brazilian variety «Carino». Watermelons have a round or oval shape, usually weighing no more than 12 kilograms (about 27 pounds). The fruits of this variety ripen early, in just 58–62 days,’ say experts.

The supermarket shelves feature melons from two different varieties, including the Piel de Sapo.
Source:
Yulia Maltseva / 72.RU

In the Perekrestok supermarket chain, where the Brazilian watermelons were found, the price is steep — 369 rubles per kilogram (about $4 at current rates).

The Piel de Sapo melon is colloquially known as «toad skin» due to its appearance.
Source:
Yulia Maltseva / 72.RU

And next to them, yellow aromatic melons are displayed.

The Piel de Sapo melon (Piel de Sapo, «toad skin», or «Santa Claus») is a popular Spanish variety with dark green, dense, spotted skin and sweet, juicy white or pale green flesh. These melons differ from others not only in appearance but also in shelf life: with proper storage, they can be kept for up to one and a half months.

Previously, Tyumen residents were surprised by unusual tangerines that were imported to Tyumen. The citrus looked strange: wrinkled skin and a stem. And city dwellers were also amazed by types of tomatoes that looked spoiled but were very expensive — it turned out that this is just the variety.