The amazing Cucuzzi gourd was introduced to the U.S. in the later part of the 1900s by a man named Zio Menzie. Zio was born in Sicily and moved to New York as a teenager, and every time he traveled home to Italy he would bring more seeds back to the States when he returned. Although technically a gourd, the Cucuzzi is often referred to as a squash because, once peeled and seeded, it can be eaten much like zucchini and other squashes. Mild in flavor with a tender texture, it's delicious in all sorts of dishes and can even be used to make bread and muffins. These giant gourds can grow as long as three feet and plump up to three inches in diameter! However, for eating purposes they should be harvested when they're younger and much shorter, around 6-10 inches. If you decide to let them be the giants they can be, they're certainly fun for crafting and decorating and definitely grab attention. Before vegetable growth, the long, lush vines treat you to quite a show of pretty white flowers.
More Information| SKU | DL013833 |
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| Item Package Size | Packet |
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| Seeds Per Packet | approx. 15 seeds per packet |
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| Botanical Name | Lagenaria siceraria |
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| How To Grow | Direct sow or start indoors |
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| Light Requirements | Full Sun |
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| Planting Depth | 1 inch |
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| Seed Spacing | 24-36 inches |
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| Row Spacing | 4-6 feet |
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| Space After Thinning | 6 feet |
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| Days To Germinate | 3-10 days |
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| Days To Maturity | 55 (for eating); 100 (for gourd use) |
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| Seed Life Cycle | Annuals |
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| Certifications | Heirloom |
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| Advantages | Ornamental, Edible |
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| Additional Information | Introduced in 1830s |
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| Item Unit Of Measure | Packet |
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| Ships As | Seed |
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| Ships To Canada | Yes |
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