Cucurbita maxima. 110 days. Open-pollinated.
Iran Winter Squash is an heirloom variety collected from northeastern Iran in the 1940s for preservation in the USDA seed bank. It was introduced to the American public a number of years later and has been quite the hit due to its stunning appearance!
Long, creeping vines produce large, pumpkin-like fruits with an exterior that is silver-green and mottled in pale orange, making it excellent for fall displays and bringing a bit of autumn into your home or business. Flesh is orange and tasty, and can be prepared in the same fashion as other winter squashes, be it baking, sauteing, frying, or pureeing.
Drought in heat tolerant. If stored in a cool, dark location the fruits will keep for well over a year.
Iran Winter Squash
Growth Chart
Hardiness Zones: 2 to 11 Light Requirement: Full sun Soil Type: Loose, loamy, well drained Sow Depth: 1 inch Plant Spacing: 8 to 10 feet apart in rows 10 to 12 feet apart Germination Temp: 70°F to 85°F Germination Time: 10 to 20 days Maturation: 110 days Growing Tips
If starting indoors, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep in small, individual peat post, 2 seeds per pot. Thin to the strongest plant once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves. Transplant outdoors once soil temperatures are 60°F or higher by planting the seedlings in a location with full sun and rich soil. Space plants 8 to 10 feet apart in rows 10 to 12 feet apart.