Cucurbitaceae

Cucurbita foetidissima

Hardy perennial squash, very drought tolerant. Native to prairie, Rockies, southwest, down through Mexico. Seeds edible, high in protein and oil. Up to 3 tons per hectare yield. Enormous roots also processed for starch. Fruit and leaves not edible.

Has overwintered for us in Massachusetts but never set fruit - season too short? Wants excellent drainage, tolerates extremes of cold and heat.

Photo taken at Denver Botanic Garden.