Eden Seeds
Squash Winter Perennial Squash Chilacayote Seeds
$3.90
Unit price perCucurbita ficifolia
Chilacayote is an unusual long-lived squash originating in the highlands of Central America. A vigorous, fast-growing trailing vine, it is often described as the perennial squash because plants can persist for several years in frost-free conditions. Unlike most squash, it thrives in relatively cool conditions and can produce heavily through winter and spring in suitable climates.
Plants produce numerous large, watermelon-like fruits with sweet white flesh. Immature fruits can be eaten raw or cooked like zucchini, while the flowers, young leaves and tender shoots are also eaten as vegetables. Mature fruit is traditionally used for preserves, jams and confectionery, particularly the distinctive candied preparations found throughout Mexico and Central America. The protein-rich seeds are also edible and nutritious.
Exceptionally vigorous, hardy and disease resistant, Chilacayote produces mature fruits that can store for many months. Cucurbita ficifolia is genetically distinct from the common cultivated squash species and does not readily cross with other garden squash, making it particularly useful for seed savers.
Approximately 6 seeds per packet.
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: February–August
Subtropics: February–September
Mild climates: August–March
Cold climates: September–December, after frost risk has passed
Planting / Sowing
Sow directly approximately 2–3 cm deep or raise seedlings for transplanting. Germination can take approximately 15–30 days. Allow plenty of room for the vigorous trailing vines, which can cover a substantial area or be trained over a strong trellis or structure.
Keep adequately watered during establishment and fruit development. Harvest young fruits for zucchini-style use or allow them to mature fully on the vine for storage, seed or preserves.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
Squash Winter Perennial Squash Chilacayote Seeds
$3.90
Unit price per
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Squash Winter Perennial Squash Chilacayote Seeds
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Cucurbita ficifolia
Chilacayote is an unusual long-lived squash originating in the highlands of Central America. A vigorous, fast-growing trailing vine, it is often described as the perennial squash because plants can persist for several years in frost-free conditions. Unlike most squash, it thrives in relatively cool conditions and can produce heavily through winter and spring in suitable climates.
Plants produce numerous large, watermelon-like fruits with sweet white flesh. Immature fruits can be eaten raw or cooked like zucchini, while the flowers, young leaves and tender shoots are also eaten as vegetables. Mature fruit is traditionally used for preserves, jams and confectionery, particularly the distinctive candied preparations found throughout Mexico and Central America. The protein-rich seeds are also edible and nutritious.
Exceptionally vigorous, hardy and disease resistant, Chilacayote produces mature fruits that can store for many months. Cucurbita ficifolia is genetically distinct from the common cultivated squash species and does not readily cross with other garden squash, making it particularly useful for seed savers.
Approximately 6 seeds per packet.
When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: February–August
Subtropics: February–September
Mild climates: August–March
Cold climates: September–December, after frost risk has passed
Planting / Sowing
Sow directly approximately 2–3 cm deep or raise seedlings for transplanting. Germination can take approximately 15–30 days. Allow plenty of room for the vigorous trailing vines, which can cover a substantial area or be trained over a strong trellis or structure.
Keep adequately watered during establishment and fruit development. Harvest young fruits for zucchini-style use or allow them to mature fully on the vine for storage, seed or preserves.
Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.
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