Cucurbita maxima 'Amazonka' – Large, productive and versatile pumpkin

Cucurbita maxima 'Amazonka' is a vigorous pumpkin variety beloved by gardeners for its high yield, large fruits, and versatile culinary uses. This variety is perfect for both home gardeners and commercial growers looking for a productive and reliable pumpkin.

Amazonas pumpkins are large and round to slightly flattened, weighing between 5 and 12 kg per fruit, depending on growing conditions. The skin is firm and bright orange, while the flesh is deep orange, sweet, and low in fiber. These characteristics make the pumpkin ideal for soup, puree, baking, roasting, and various culinary experiments.

Growth and cultivation characteristics

Cucurbita maxima 'Amazonka' develops vigorous, fast-growing vines that can reach several meters in length. The variety is robust and adapts well to various soil types, provided they are fertile and well-drained.

Important cultivation characteristics:

• Location: Sunny and warm place, protected from strong winds

• Soil: Humus-rich, well-drained and slightly moist

• Water: Water regularly, especially during fruiting and growth period

Because of its robust plants, Amazonka is suitable for open ground, greenhouses, or tunnels. The vines can be trained along the ground or slightly lifted for better air circulation and cleaner fruits.

Culinary applications

The flesh of the Amazonian apple is sweet, firm and aromatic, making it versatile in the kitchen:

• Pumpkin soup, stews and curries

• Pumpkin puree and pastry

• Roasting and baking

• Decorative presentation of dishes

Its firm texture and sweet flavor make Amazonka popular with both home cooks and professional chefs. Moreover, the pumpkin can be stored for a long time after ripening, making it ideal for use during the fall and winter months.

Decorative value

In addition to its culinary qualities, Cucurbita maxima 'Amazonka' is also decorative:

• Bright orange, large fruits attract attention in autumn gardens and at markets

• Ideal for fall decorations and educational garden projects

• Suitable for exhibitions or as an eye-catcher in vegetable gardens

Cultivation advice

To get the most out of Cucurbita maxima 'Amazonka', the following guidelines are recommended:

• Sowing: Sow indoors from March to April, or sow directly outdoors when the soil temperature is above 18°C

• Planting out: After the frost period, with a planting distance of 1.5–2 metres

• Support: Lightly raise the plants for better air circulation and cleaner fruits.

• Harvesting: Pick fully ripe pumpkins when the skin is hard and the stem turns dry and brown.

Conclusion

Cucurbita maxima 'Amazonka' is a robust, productive, and versatile squash perfect for home gardeners, small commercial growers, and culinary enthusiasts. With its large, bright orange fruits, firm texture, and delicious flavor, Amazonka combines productivity, ornamental value, and culinary versatility. This variety is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and tasty squash for fall and winter use.