Cucurbita mixta (Cucurbita argyrosperma) – Tennessee Sweet Potato: A traditional pumpkin variety with exceptional flavor

The Tennessee Sweet Potato—also known by its botanical name Cucurbita mixta or Cucurbita argyrosperma —is a unique heirloom variety that has been prized for generations in the southern states of the United States. Despite its name, this variety is not a sweet potato, but a squash with a similarly sweet, creamy flavor and a rich culinary history. For home gardeners and lovers of authentic American varieties, the Tennessee Sweet Potato is an absolute must-have.

Origin and heritage

This historic pumpkin variety is said to have been cultivated in Tennessee and surrounding regions since the 19th century. Families often passed the seeds down through generations, making it a true heirloom pumpkin. The plant belongs to the Cucurbita argyrosperma group—related to pepita varieties—and is known for its vigorous growth, exceptional storage quality, and culinary versatility.

Its traditional character and unique flavor have made the Tennessee Sweet Potato a favorite among seed collectors and gardeners who want to conserve biodiversity.

Appearance and growth habit

Tennessee sweet potato fruits are typically oblong to pear-shaped. The skin has a soft cream to buff color, sometimes with subtle green hues or stripes. With an average length of 20 to 40 cm (8 to 16 inches), they are medium to large heirloom pumpkins.

The plants themselves are vigorous vines that can easily cover a large area. They thrive in warm summers and tolerate dry conditions better than many other cucurbit varieties. This makes the Tennessee Sweet Potato ideal for gardeners looking for a strong, robust, and undemanding pumpkin variety.

Sow directly in the ground from late May, or sow earlier in pots. The plants need plenty of room to spread out, but they reward the grower with a high yield and fruits that can be stored for months.

Culinary applications and taste

The name Tennessee Sweet Potato comes from the distinctive flavor and texture of its flesh. The orange pulp is sweet, aromatic, and tender when cooked. This makes this variety particularly suitable for:

• Pies and cakes, such as pumpkin pie

• Roasted vegetable dishes

• Stews

• Soups and purees

• Oven dishes with herbs and butter

The flavor is reminiscent of sweet potato, but with a milder, pumpkin-like nuance. This makes the Tennessee Sweet Potato an excellent choice for both savory and sweet dishes. Many chefs prize this variety for its rich consistency, deep color, and stable cooking properties.

Storage and preservation quality

Another strong point is the fruits' long shelf life. When harvested at full maturity and cured for several weeks in a warm, dry place, the pumpkins can be stored for up to six months. During this storage period, the flavor even deepens – the natural sugars develop further, making the flesh even sweeter.

This makes the Tennessee Sweet Potato ideal for winter kitchens and for anyone who wants to be self-sufficient in their gardening.

Why choose Tennessee Sweet Potato?

• Unique taste: Sweet, creamy and exceptionally versatile

• Historic Heirloom Breed: Authentic American Agricultural Heritage

• Strong growth: Little susceptible to disease and good resistance to drought

• Excellent storage pumpkin: Can be kept for months

• Versatile use: From cakes to soups and casseroles