Pumpkins belong to the “Cucurbita” plant family. This species also includes squash, watermelon, and cucumbers. Thanks to easy cross-breeding, there are hundreds of varieties of pumpkins. Focusing specifically on pumpkins, there are three types of pumpkins. Each of the hundreds of varieties fit into one of these three categories of pumpkins.
Did You know? There are over two hundred varieties of pumpkins? But, like most other types of plants, seed companies carry just a few dozens, And, the largest companies carry far less.
This group includes the pumpkins frequently used for commercially canned pumpkin. They tend to be oblong pumpkins and have tan skin.
Other members include:
These are the Jack-o-Lantern varieties you most commonly see. If you plan on carving and displaying pumpkins in and around your home, then these are the types of pumpkins to grow. And, it also includes the cute little miniature pumpkins that fit in the palm of your hand.
Common pumpkin varieties include: Connecticut field pumpkins, Howden pumpkins, and Howden Biggie pumpkins.
Other members include:
Undeniably, Cucurbita maxima is the King of the Pumpkin Patch. Whether you consider these to be squash, pumpkins, pumpkin squash or any other name, these are the beasts of the pumpkin patch.
Some of the most popular members of this group include: PrizeWinner Hybrid, Big Max, and of course, the infamous Atlantic Giant.
Other members include:
Within the categories of pumpkins above, some of the more interesting varieties include:
Miniature Pumpkins – Often called Jack B. Little Pumpkins (a specific variety). They are also abbreviated as “JBL”. Miniature pumpkins are fun to grow and decorate with. It puts a smile on people’s faces whenever they see these cute little guys in Fall decorations.
White Pumpkins are relatively new on the scene. These strikingly attractive pumpkins have a very hard shell, too.
Blue or blue-green pumpkins – They are often called Australian Blue or Jaradale pumpkins.
Hull-less seedless pumpkins – They are also a relatively new variety. If you want to eat the seeds, then this is the ideal variety for you.
Pumpkin on a Stick(or Pumpkin Tree) – Is it really a pumpkin? Find out……
Others: Pumpkins come in just about any color. A blue variety can be found in eastern Europe and a red variety, called “Rouge D’Etant” are definitely a conversation piece in a Fall display.
Genetics significantly affects the outcome of your plant. Just as with any other animal or plant species, the child takes on the characteristics of the parents. Without a doubt, the environment plays a role in the final outcome and very much so in the plant world. But, if the seed does not have the genetic capability to grow to enormous size, it cannot do so even in a perfect nurturing environment. Keep in mind that size is not always the only thing. If you are growing your pumpkin for display, then roundness and color are important characteristics, too.
All the growers I talk with agree that if you want a big pumpkin, then you need to get seed with proven genetics for big pumpkins. The largest in the world are all Atlantic Giants. If you are growing for competition, you need one from a parent in the 1,000-1,500 pound+ range, preferably one that has already proven to produce big offspring.
People who like this article on types of pumpkins will also like:
Pumpkin Varieties – common, popular varieties.
More about pumpkins – at Garden Hobbies!
