Cucurbita maxima Sombra F1 – Modern hybrid winter squash with deep color

The Cucurbita maxima Sombra F1 is an F1 hybrid winter squash that stands out for its dark orange to reddish skin and round, slightly flattened shape. This hybrid variety is ideal for gardeners and professional growers seeking a decorative and culinary winter squash with a high yield, robust plants, and excellent storage qualities. The Sombra F1 combines robust growth, aromatic flesh, and reliable yields in one versatile F1 hybrid variety.

Features and properties

Cucurbita maxima species , known for its winter hardiness, robust fruits, and culinary quality. Key characteristics of this hybrid variety include:

• Round to slightly flattened fruits with smooth, dark orange to reddish skin

• Average weight of 4 to 7 kilograms per fruit, ideal for cooking, pureeing, selling or processing

• Firm, aromatic flesh with a sweet, nutty flavour and deep orange colour

• Hybrid traits ensure uniform fruits and consistent harvests

• Strong, robust plants with good resistance to diseases and changing weather conditions

Thanks to its F1 hybrid traits, Sombra F1 produces reliably, uniform fruits that have both culinary and ornamental value.

Cultivation and care

The Cucurbita maxima Sombra F1 grows best in a sunny location with fertile, well-drained soil. The plant's vigorous vines require ample space. Growing advice:

• Sow indoors or under glass in April-May to ensure a strong start

• Plant out after the Ice Saints, when soil temperatures are 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-decomposed manure

• Regular watering during flowering and fruiting for firm, uniform fruits

Its robust growth and high disease resistance make Sombra F1 suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Culinary applications

The flesh of the Sombra F1 is firm, aromatic and deep orange, making it suitable for a variety of dishes:

• Creamy pumpkin soup and puree

• Roasted pumpkin slices

• Stews and casseroles

• Sweet preparations such as pumpkin pies, muffins or bread

• Can and freeze for later use

Thanks to its firm texture, the flesh holds up well during cooking, stewing or baking, making it a versatile pumpkin for the kitchen.

Shelf life

A major advantage of the Sombra F1 is its long shelf life. When harvested at full maturity and stored in a cool, dry place, the fruits can last for several months without loss of quality. This makes the variety ideal for long-term consumption, sale, or ornamental use.

Decorative value

The deep color and round shape make the Sombra F1 particularly suitable for decoration:

• Autumn and winter decorations

• Market and sales presentations

• Creative flower or pumpkin arrangements

The combination of unique colour, uniform shape and robust growth makes this F1 hybrid variety versatile in both kitchen and decoration.