A pumpkin tale
Learn the backstory of some popular pumpkins and gourds
The pumpkins, squashes and gourds we feature each Fall at Calloway’s and Cornelius come in every shape, size and color imaginable!
To say they’re “interesting” is an understatement. Looking at them you tend to think, “Where in the world did these come from?”
So, I have set out to do just that: Learn the backstory behind several of the most popular varieties we offer.
The findings are fascinating! These pumpkins and gourds are more than "produce." They've got personality!
Below are some favorite pumpkin tales I uncovered with a little sleuthing. I'm sure we could spin even more yarns about these Fall beauties (and, um, beasts). If you've got the inside scoop, feel free to dish with us! Comment below with your favorite pumpkin stories or recipes!
Cinderella Pumpkin
The official name of the Cinderella Pumpkin is ‘Rouge Vif d’Etampes.’ Sophisticated, no? It’s a beautiful French heirloom pumpkin. It first became available in the U.S. back in 1883. Foodies say this pumpkin’s rich, thick flesh is moist and custard-like with a sweet flavor.
Fairytale Pumpkin
This is another native of France, with an equally impressive, official name: Musque De Provence. The rind is dark green when immature, and transforms into a gorgeous deep mahogany. The flesh is deep orange and suitable for cooking and baking in pies.
Lunch Lady Gourds
School cafeteria workers are a tough, battle-hardened sort. Dishing up mystery meat and dealing with complaining kids will do that to you, I guess. The hard shells and warts on Lunch Lady Gourds pay homage to these folks.
Jarrahdale Pumpkin
Now a selection from across the globe! Jarrahdale is A New Zealand heirloom variety prized for its slate-blue color, ribbed exterior and delicious orange flesh. You can carve it or bake it like any other squash. Its golden- to orange-colored flesh is nutty, sweet and stringless.
Baby Boo Pumpkin
Baby Boo Pumpkins are, indeed, babies. To maintain the stunning white color, these pumpkins are harvested prior to full maturity. They become a very pale yellow when fully ripe.
Rascal
The Rascal pumpkin was bred specifically by the Outstanding Seed Co. to raise funds for cancer research. The Hoffman family, which runs the company, has been affected by cancer over the years, and the company donates a portion of their proceeds from seed sales to cancer research.
Long Island Cheese Pumpkin
Yes, this pumpkin really is a Long Island (N.Y.) native. The “cheese” part of the name comes from the general look of the pumpkin—reminiscent of a wheel of cheese. I learned on this b