Cucurbita pepo Kelle bicolor – Decorative Orange-Yellow Bicolor Pumpkin

Cucurbita pepo Kelle bicolor is an exceptional ornamental pumpkin with a striking orange-yellow and green bicolor pattern. This trowel-shaped mini pumpkin is not suitable for consumption, but it guarantees a spectacular autumn decoration, whether in gardens, flower arrangements, or on market stalls. Thanks to its robust and striking shape, Kelle bicolor is a favorite among amateur gardeners and professional growers looking to enhance their autumn collection.

Key Features

The bicolor pumpkin is distinguished by its long, trowel-shaped fruits, which are approximately 8–10 cm long and have a dark yellow base with green accents. This unique bicolor pattern gives the pumpkin a decorative look, making it a real eye-catcher on tables, in baskets, or as part of autumn arrangements.

The robust fruits have a longer shelf life than comparable varieties, such as Pear bicolor, meaning they remain beautiful for a long time and are ideal for long-term exhibitions or decorative displays. Their compact size also makes them easy to handle and incorporate into flower arrangements and other decorative applications.

Although Kelle bicolor is not edible, the pumpkin is perfect for creative decorating projects, seasonal displays, and fall decorations, where it adds a natural and colorful touch.

Maturation and yield

Kelle bicolor matures in approximately 85 days, ensuring a reliable and predictable harvest. The plants are highly productive, with multiple fruits per plant. Thanks to its moderate vine growth, the plant can be kept relatively compact, while the fruits still develop well and remain optimally shaped.

The variety is ideal for hobby gardeners who want to present a mix of colours and shapes, but also for professional growers who are looking for a robust, long-lasting decorative pumpkin.

Cultivation advice

Cucurbita pepo Kelle bicolor grows best in warm, well-drained soil. For optimal results, the plants can be pre-cultivated and planted out from late April, or sown directly from early May.

Optimal germination is between 24–30°C. When sowing, it's important to hold the pointed end of the seed downward or lay it flat, and avoid keeping the seed too moist. After germination, the seedlings can be moved to a brighter, cooler location to develop strong, healthy plants that can withstand normal weather conditions.

Growth behavior and planting distance

Kelle bicolor has a moderately vining growth habit, meaning the plants need sufficient space to spread out but don't take up an excessive amount of space. Planting distance depends on the vining habit, but for optimal fruit development, it's recommended to leave sufficient space between plants so the fruits don't crowd each other and retain their decorative shape.

Decorative applications

Thanks to its long, trowel-shaped shape, robust structure, and striking bicolor colors, Kelle bicolor is ideal for autumn decorations, market stalls, flower arrangements, and seasonal displays. The durable skin and sturdy stem ensure the fruits retain their beauty and store well for a long time, making them perfect for both indoor and outdoor decoration.