Squash/gourd id help please!

Discussion in 'Identification Area' started by Cornsquashandy, Dec 21, 2025 at 10:21 AM.

  1. NigelJ

    NigelJ Total Gardener

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    I've always considered anything listed in the vegetable section of a seed list to be edible and anything listed under flowers to be ornamental and only edible if there is a specific statement to that effect.
     
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    • Philippa

      Philippa Gardener

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      The Bottle Gourds are left to dry out completely so you just have the hard exterior and the seeds which if dried should rattle when shaken. The "veining" on the exterior is very intricate and can be emphasised by careful painting with acrylic paint. Make nice decorative items.
      It's probably about 25 years ago when I grew the T Turban - maybe we did eat them - can't remember but it was the colour and shape that I liked.
       
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      • Adam I

        Adam I Super Gardener

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        The poisons in the Cucumis Genus, cuces and pomps, are all bitter. If your squash fruit isnt bitter, it is safe to eat, regardless of ornamentality. A tiny bit wont hurt you but a whole bitter courgette could be lights out!

        I believe most poisonings involve people with poor sense of taste, desperation via poverty, or extreme cooking which can cover up the flavour. Try a bit raw to be safe.

        Personally id avoid growing non edible ones to avoid poisoning someones saved courgette seeds, if any existed in my area, which i doubt :rolleyespink:
         
        Last edited: Dec 22, 2025 at 1:05 PM
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