Cucurbita maxima Sun Spot F1 – Hybrid winter squash with striking markings

Cucurbita maxima Sun Spot F1 is an F1 hybrid winter squash that stands out with its bright yellow-orange "sun spots" on a deep orange to reddish rind. This modern variety is ideal for gardeners and professional growers seeking a decorative and culinary winter squash with a high yield, robust plants, and reliable fruit. Sun Spot F1 combines aesthetic appeal, aromatic flesh, and consistent yields in one versatile hybrid variety.

Features and properties

Cucurbita maxima species , known for its winter hardiness, robust fruits, and culinary versatility. Key characteristics of this F1 hybrid variety include:

• Round to slightly flattened fruits with striking sun spots on the skin

• Average weight of 4 to 7 kilograms per fruit, suitable for cooking, selling and processing

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

• Hybrid traits for uniform fruits and consistent harvest

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

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

Cultivation and care

Cucurbita maxima Sun Spot F1 grows best in a sunny location with fertile, well-drained soil. The plant's vigorous vines need ample space for optimal growth. 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 good air circulation

• Enrich the soil with compost or well-decomposed organic fertilizer

• Regular watering during flowering and fruiting for firm fruits

Due to its robust growth and high disease resistance, the Sun Spot F1 is suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Culinary applications

The flesh of the Sun Spot 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 structure, the flesh holds up well during cooking, stewing or baking, making it a versatile pumpkin in the kitchen.

Shelf life

A major advantage of Sun Spot 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 striking sun spots and round shape make the Sun Spot F1 particularly suitable for:

• Autumn and winter decorations

• Market and sales presentations

• Creative flower or pumpkin arrangements

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