Cucurbita maxima Rote Warze – Unique, decorative and tasty winter squash

The Cucurbita maxima Rote Warze is a striking heirloom winter squash that immediately catches the eye with its deep red, irregular skin covered with characteristic warts. This variety combines ornamental appeal with excellent culinary qualities, making it suitable for both the vegetable garden and the kitchen. The Rote Warze is ideal for gardeners seeking a unique, flavorful, and visually interesting squash variety.

Features and properties

The Rote Warze belongs to the Cucurbita maxima , known for its robust growth and versatile fruits. Key characteristics of this variety include:

• Deep red, warty skin that gives the pumpkin a unique, decorative appearance

• Irregular, often round to slightly flattened shape

• Average weight from 2 to 5 kilograms, depending on growing conditions

• Deep orange, aromatic flesh with a slightly sweet, nutty flavour

• Strong and reliable heritage variety, resistant to changing weather conditions

The striking warts and deep red color make the Rote Warze particularly suitable for autumn decoration and visually attractive garden displays.

Cultivation and care

The Cucurbita maxima Rote Warze is a heat-loving winter squash that grows best in a sunny location with fertile, well-drained soil. Some growing tips:

• Sow in April-May indoors or under glass to extend the growing period

• Plant out after the Ice Saints, when the soil temperature is above 15°C

• Planting distance of 1.5 to 2 meters per plant for optimal air circulation and growing space

• Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure

• Regular watering during flowering and fruiting for firm fruits

The robust growth and strong plants make the Rote Warze suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Culinary applications

The flesh of the Rote Warze is firm, deep orange and aromatic, making it suitable for various culinary applications:

• Creamy pumpkin soup

• Roasted pumpkin slices

• Pumpkin puree for savory and sweet dishes

• Stews and casseroles

• Pumpkin pies, muffins or bread

• Can and freeze for later use

Despite the warty skin, the flesh remains tender and full of flavour, making it a delicious addition to all sorts of dishes.

Shelf life

A major advantage of the Rote Warze is its excellent storage quality. When harvested when fully ripe and stored in a cool, dry place, this winter squash can be stored for several months without loss of quality. This makes the variety ideal for long-term consumption, sale, or ornamental use.

Decorative value

The unique warty skin and deep red color make the Rote Warze particularly suitable for decoration:

• Autumn and winter decorations

• Garden shows and market presentations

• Creative flower or pumpkin arrangements

• Eye-catcher for interior and exterior decoration

The combination of unique shape, striking color and robust growth makes this heritage variety versatile and attractive.