Cucurbita moschata – Musquée du Maroc: Exotic and aromatic muscat gourd

The Cucurbita moschata Musquée du Maroc is a classic butternut squash variety native to Morocco and known for its aromatic, sweet flesh, robust plants, and reliable yield. This variety is ideal for home gardeners and professional growers seeking a premium pumpkin with authentic flavor and excellent culinary uses.

Appearance and characteristics of the fruits

Musquée du Maroc produces large, uniform fruits, usually weighing between 3 and 7 kilograms, with a classic butternut squash shape: an elongated neck and a rounded belly. The skin is smooth to slightly ribbed and has a deep beige to greenish-brown color, making the fruits both visually appealing and practical for processing.

The flesh is deep orange, creamy, aromatic, and sweet, with a refined nutty flavor that distinguishes the variety. The compact seed cavity makes a large portion of the fruit edible, allowing the flesh to be efficiently used in a variety of culinary applications.

Cultivation characteristics

Musquée du Maroc belongs to the Cucurbita moschata family, making the plants heat-hardy, robust, and often disease-resistant. The vines are medium to long, with strong leaves that protect the fruit from sunburn and dehydration. This variety is suitable for open ground, hobby gardens, and commercial cultivation.

Important cultivation characteristics:

• High-quality nutmeg pumpkin with aromatic flesh

• Reliable fruit set and consistent harvest

• Strong leaf growth protects the fruits

• Heat resistant and resistant to common diseases

• Suitable for both domestic and commercial cultivation

For optimal growth, Musquée du Maroc requires full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Sow indoors from April or outdoors from late May, as soon as the soil temperature is above 15°C. Regular watering and mulching promote healthy plants and optimal fruit quality.

Culinary applications

The aromatic, creamy, and sweet flesh of Musquée du Maroc is versatile in the kitchen. The firm flesh is perfect for roasting, boiling, or pureeing, adding a refined flavor to a variety of dishes.

Recommended applications:

• Roasted pumpkin cubes or slices

• Creamy pumpkin soups

• Stews and curries

• Puree for pasta, gnocchi or baby food

• Baking recipes such as muffins, bread or pumpkin pie

• Stuffed pumpkin for presentation at parties

Thanks to the compact seed cavity, the pulp can be used efficiently, suitable for domestic and professional cooking.

Storage and preservation quality

Musquée du Maroc has excellent storage qualities. After a short curing period, the fruits can be stored for up to five months in a cool, dry place. During storage, the flavor deepens and the flesh becomes even sweeter and creamier, ideal for winter dishes and long-term culinary uses.

Why choose Musquée du Maroc?

• Exotic Moroccan butternut squash

• Creamy, aromatic and sweet flesh

• Robust plants with reliable harvests

• Strong resistance to common diseases

• Excellent storage quality and versatile culinary applications