Cucurbita maxima Chicago Warted – Spectacular, gnarled ornamental fruit with excellent flavor

The Cucurbita maxima Chicago Warted is undoubtedly one of the most striking and distinctive pumpkin varieties you can grow in the home garden. This iconic heirloom variety is known for its heavily roughened, gnarled rind and deep, intense orange color. Its dramatic appearance makes it a favorite as an autumn decoration, but Chicago Warted is more than just an ornamental pumpkin: behind that rough exterior lies a hearty, flavorful winter squash that's perfectly suited for culinary use.

This historic American pumpkin variety has been cherished for generations for its unique appearance, reliable yield, and great versatility. For gardeners seeking an impressive eye-catcher and a valuable culinary fruit, the Chicago Warted is an absolute must-have.

External characteristics

Chicago Warted fruits are medium to large, typically weighing 4 to 10 kilograms. Their shape is round to slightly flattened, with distinct ridges and numerous warts and bumps across the entire rind. This characteristic, rough skin creates an authentic, rustic appearance that's perfect for autumn arrangements, Halloween celebrations, and country-style décor.

The color ranges from warm orange to deep orange, with the warts usually being darker or greener. These striking color variations contribute to the breed's ornamental value.

Flesh and taste

Although the Chicago Warted is primarily known for its ornamental qualities, its flesh is surprisingly appealing in culinary terms. The interior is intensely orange, firm, and slightly sweet, with a fine texture that softens and becomes creamy when cooked.

The taste is best described as classic, nutty and mildly sweet – an excellent base for both savoury and sweet dishes.

Ideal culinary applications include:

• Classic pumpkin soup

• Roasted pumpkin with herbs

• Stews and curries

• Pumpkin puree or gratin

• Baked pumpkin cubes

• Filling for ravioli or gnocchi

• Sweet preparations such as cake, bread or muffins

The firm structure also makes Chicago Warted suitable for dishes where the pumpkin cubes must remain whole.

Growth and cultivation

The Cucurbita maxima Chicago Warted is a vigorously growing pumpkin plant with long vines. It therefore requires ample space in the vegetable garden. Despite its trailing growth, this variety is surprisingly reliable and hardy, even in changeable weather conditions.

Growing tips for optimal results:

• Sowing: Sow seeds from April onwards; sow outdoors from the end of May.

• Location: Plenty of sun and warmth promote better wart formation.

• Planting distance: at least 1.5 to 2 meters per plant.

• Soil: nutritious, humus-rich and well-drained.

• Water: regularly, especially during fruiting.

• Feeding: extra compost or organic fertilizer encourages vine growth and fruit size.

The warts develop best in warm, dry weather. Cool and wet weather can reduce the appearance of the fruit, but does not affect the eating quality. Ripe fruits are recognizable by their hard skin and woody stems. Pumpkins store well, often throughout the winter.

Why choose Cucurbita maxima Chicago Warted?

For gardeners who want to grow something unique—a pumpkin that immediately draws attention—Chicago Warted is ideal. It's a variety that's both visually striking and culinary-friendly.

Advantages at a glance:

• Extremely decorative thanks to its gnarled, rough shell

• Deep orange color that contrasts beautifully in autumn decoration

• Firm, tasty flesh for versatile use

• Strong growth and high yield

• Excellent storage quality in winter

• Heirloom breed with an authentic appearance

With its striking appearance and tasty interior, the Cucurbita maxima Chicago Warted is a spectacular addition to any vegetable garden and kitchen.