Different Types of Pumpkins + Squash

Have you been to a pumpkin patch and wondered what all the different types of pumpkins were and what you could possibly use them for (other than decoration of course)?

Jack-o’-lantern Pumpkins

Arguably the most popular and recognizable pumpkin, jack-o’-lanterns provide the best surface for your Halloween carvings (and pumpkin centerpieces). While you can cook and bake with jack-o’-lanterns, that’s just not what they are grown for. Check out the other varieties listed below to produce better tasting dishes and desserts. We do recommend their seeds for roasting, though!

One Too Many Pumpkins

These beautiful white pumpkins are striped with oranges and reds and are a favorite for fall decorating. But if you’ve seen a One Too Many Pumpkin at a nursery and wondered how it got its name, it’s from the stripes! Or veins, as they look like a blood shot eyeball after having “one too many”.

Tiger Striped Baby Pumpkins

Tiger striped baby pumpkins are a table top favorite for decorating! Their small and light weight bodies make them easy to move and rearrange to change up your festive decor. But did you also know they are great for cooking and stuffing? These little tigers are best prepared through baking, roasting or steaming!

Pie Pumpkins

If you’re wanting to make the best pie possible, look for pumpkins with “pie” and “sugar” in the name. What sets these apart from the others on this list are their small, round shape that is filled with sweet flesh, perfect for baking!

Knucklehead Pumpkins

These knuckleheads are great for creating unique fall accent pieces and for unusual carved centerpieces! Knucklehead pumpkins were developed from the Superfreak specialty line by Siegers Seed Co.

Big Mac Pumpkins

Big Macs are actually a hybrid! Though not a true pumpkin, the large surface area of Big Macs make them great for carving, but their primary usage is in exhibitions. While not usually used for eating, Big Macs will keep for several months if stored properly.

Cinderella Pumpkins

Rumored to be the inspiration behind Cinderella’s carriage pumpkin, the Rouge Vif d’Etampes is now commonly referred to as a Cinderella pumpkin. Although mainly used as an ornamental pumpkin, they have been noted to have a creamy and slightly sweet taste when cooked, which makes them great for soups and pies.

Jarrahdale Pumpkins

These blueish gray skinned pumpkins are great for pies and they’re easy to grow! Jarrahdales are extremely popular in Australia and New Zealand, and it’s not hard to see why. Not only is their outer coloring unique, their brightly colored orange insides make for a surprisingly beautiful contrast!

Fairytale Pumpkins

Are you into eating raw produce? This French heirloom pumpkin is set apart from the others on this list as it is commonly consumed raw as a snack or garnish for dishes! Fairytale pumpkins are also known to have a long storage life and look like cheese wheels.

Turban Squash

Turban squash has been described as having a floury texture when cooked that can be sweet. Proper care should be taken when storing Turban squash as the cap is delicate and when stored uncut can last several weeks! If you’re looking for some sweet and savory options for turban squash, click here.

Yokohama Squash

This rare heirloom vegetable from Japan can be stored for a year. After prolonged storage, the Yokohama squash original skin of gray turns orange! This squash has been described as having a floral fragrance and flavor that is buttery-rich. Being from Japan, it is no surprise this squash is best used in tempura, steamed dumplings and stew. If you’re looking for more information on this interesting squash, click here!

What is your favorite pumpkin or squash from the list above? Let us know in the comments below!

If you’re looking for more recipes and fun facts on vegetables and fruits, head over to www.specialtyproduce.com, where we gathered many of our facts for this blog post.