Also known as Atlantic Giant Pumpkin · Banana Squash · Boston Marrow
Cucurbita maxima, or winter squash, is an annual vine or bush known for its large, diverse, and edible fruits. It thrives in full sun and fertile soil, producing yellow f
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun, 6-8 hours direct light.
90% intensity
Consistently moist, especially during fruiting.
70% intensity
Well-drained, fertile, rich in organic matter, pH 6.0-7.0.
50% intensity
Warm temperatures, sensitive to frost.
80% intensity
Outdoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Regular feeding during growth and fruiting.
70% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Cucurbita maxima needs consistent and deep watering, especially during dry spells and when fruits are developing. Aim for 2.
5-5 cm of water per week, applied at the base of the plant to avoid wetting foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Reduce watering as fruits mature to prevent rot.
Strategic pruning helps manage the vigorous growth of Cucurbita maxima vines and enhances fruit production.
For vining varieties, pinch back the main stem after 2-3 fruits have successfully set to encourage branching and direct energy into fruit development. Regularly remove any yellowing, diseased, or damaged leaves.
Thin out dense foliage to improve air circulation and allow sunlight to reach developing fruits, preventing rot and promoting ripening.
Cucurbita maxima is most commonly propagated from seeds. Sow seeds directly into the garden after the last frost, ensuring soil temperatures are consistently above 18°C (65°F). Plant seeds about 2.
5 cm deep and 90-150 cm apart. For an earlier start, seeds can be sown indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost, using biodegradable pots to minimize root disturbance during transplanting to their final outdoor location.
Cucurbita maxima is an annual plant typically grown directly in the ground or in very large containers, making traditional repotting unnecessary.
If seedlings are started indoors, they should be transplanted to their permanent outdoor location once they have developed 2-3 true leaves and all danger of frost has passed.
Handle seedlings carefully to avoid disturbing their delicate root systems, which can cause transplant shock.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Winter Squash (Cucurbita maxima)
Where Winter Squash (Cucurbita maxima) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus | Cucurbita |
| Species | Cucurbita maxima |
Similar in genus Cucurbita
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
