Cucurbita maxima Istanbul – Robust, versatile winter squash

The Cucurbita maxima Istanbul is a traditional pumpkin variety known for its robust growth, large fruits, and flavorful, creamy flesh. This variety is ideal for gardeners, amateur chefs, and small commercial growers seeking a reliable harvest of medium- to large-sized pumpkins with excellent culinary qualities. Istanbul combines robust growth, high yield, and long storage quality, making it a favorite in home gardens and kitchens.

Thanks to its traditional characteristics, the Istanbul provides a consistent harvest of uniform, tasty fruits.

Characteristics of the fruits

The fruits of Cucurbita maxima Istanbul are large, often round to slightly flattened, and can weigh between 5 and 10 kilograms. The skin is dark green to blue-green and sometimes lightens as it ripens. The firm skin protects the flesh from damage and spoilage, making the pumpkin well-suited for storage and transport.

The flesh is deep orange, creamy, and slightly sweet, with a fine texture that's ideal for a variety of culinary uses. Its firm texture keeps the flesh intact during cooking, roasting, or pureeing.

Growth and cultivation

The Cucurbita maxima Istanbul grows vigorously with long tendrils and broad, healthy leaves that protect the fruits from sun and wind. This variety is robust and reliable, even in changing weather conditions. Istanbul performs best in well-drained, humus-rich soil and is suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Cultivation advice:

• Sowing: Sow indoors from April; plant out after the last frost.

• Outdoor sowing: Possible from the end of May at a soil temperature ≥15°C.

• Position: Full sun, warm and sheltered from strong winds.

• Planting distance: 1.5 to 2 meters per plant to allow sufficient space for tendrils and fruit development.

• Soil: Nutritious, humus-rich and well-drained; compost promotes fruit set and flavour development.

• Water: Water regularly, especially during fruiting and warm periods.

The fruits ripen late in the season and are ready for harvest when the skins harden completely and the stems begin to cork. When stored properly, the pumpkins can be kept for months.

Culinary applications

Istanbul's flesh is versatile and flavorful. Its creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor make it ideal for a variety of dishes. Its firm texture keeps the flesh intact when cooked, roasted, or pureed.

Popular applications:

• Creamy pumpkin soup

• Roasted pumpkin cubes from the oven

• Stews and curries

• Pumpkin puree, gnocchi or ravioli filling

• Sweet dishes such as pumpkin pie, muffins or bread

• Stuffed pumpkin with grains, vegetables or meat

Thanks to its large, robust fruits and long storage life, Istanbul is ideal for gardeners looking to supplement their winter supplies.

Why choose Cucurbita maxima Istanbul?

The Istanbul combines robust growth, high yield, and excellent culinary quality in a single, traditional variety. It's an excellent choice for gardeners and amateur chefs who want a consistent harvest of flavorful, uniform pumpkins.

Key benefits:

• Large dark green to blue-green fruits

• Deep orange, creamy and slightly sweet flesh

• Robust and reliable growing variety

• Versatile in the kitchen – suitable for savoury and sweet dishes

• Good storage quality for winter storage

• Consistent yield and robust performance

With its combination of size, taste and robustness, the Cucurbita maxima Istanbul is a valuable addition to any vegetable garden and kitchen.