Cucurbita pepo

These small-fruited gourds are annual climbing or creeping plants. They are cultivated for decorative purposes only. They come in a beautiful range of shapes and variegated colours. Their bitter flesh contains some medicinal properties and is used in herbal medicine. However, it is toxic when consumed directly.

Cucurbita pepo is part of the large Cucurbitaceae family. Like all squashes, gourds prefer rich and moist soil. Provide them with plenty of water and well-decomposed compost or manure so that they can develop to the fullest and produce numerous fruits.

Most varieties are climbing. Their flexible branches bear tendrils that attach themselves to the support provided, exposing their fruits to the sun as best as possible. If they do not have support, they will spread on the ground. Plant them in a warm and sunny location.

Harvest the decorative fruits in September-October, before the first frost. Keep part of the stalk attached to the fruit. Store them in a warm and dry place. The flesh will dry out in a few weeks. The dried fruits can then be used for decoration in the house. The cultivation and abundant harvest of these colourful mini-pumpkins are a great opportunity to introduce children to gardening.