The cucurbit family is way more diverse than you might think! From garden staples to oversized giants, there’s a lot to explore. Here’s a quick guide to some of the most popular members of the gourd family and what makes each of them special.
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++Giant Pumpkins (Cucurbita maxima)
As the name suggests, these are the heavyweights of the pumpkin world. If you’re looking to carve a massive Halloween jack-o’-lantern or just want to impress the neighbors, this is the variety for you. The “Atlantic Giant” is the undisputed king of this category—it’s the variety that consistently breaks world records at pumpkin weigh-offs.
++Zucchini (Cucurbita pepo subsp. pepo Zucchini)
Yep, zucchini is actually a type of squash! It’s a subspecies of the common field pumpkin and is a powerhouse in the summer garden. These plants love a sunny to partly shaded spot. Not only do they give you plenty of versatile fruit, but the blossoms are edible too! Fried zucchini flowers are a total delicacy. You won’t often find the blooms at the grocery store, so growing your own is the best way to enjoy them fresh.
++Cucumber (Cucumis sativus)
Cucumbers are also part of the cucurbit family. We usually treat them as a vegetable, and they’re the ultimate refreshing snack for hot summer days. They’re healthy, low-calorie, and super easy to grow. If you plant pickling varieties, you can preserve your harvest to enjoy year-round. Homemade pickles in a pretty mason jar also make a fantastic DIY gift!
++Muskmelon / Cantaloupe (Cucumis melo)
Looking for something sweet? Look no further than the muskmelon. If you give these plants a nice sunny spot, they’ll develop plenty of natural sugars. They’re a huge hit with kids, but they’re just as great for adults—try pairing them with some salty prosciutto for a classic, sophisticated appetizer.
++Bottle Gourd (Lagenaria siceraria)
The bottle gourd is a climbing plant that looks beautiful trailing up a trellis. Its unique, hourglass shape makes it a real eye-catcher in the garden. Because the fruits are generally smaller than giant pumpkins, they provide just the right amount of flesh for a family meal without leaving you with tons of leftovers.
++Butternut Squash (Cucurbita moschata “Butternut”)
