Squash - Black Fatsu (Pumpkin Look)

Squash – Black Futsu

*Not a pumpkin but sure looks like one*

~ 15 Seeds

Squash – Black Futsu is an old Japanese heirloom with wonderfully warty, deeply ribbed skin that ripens from a dusky, charcoal green to a warm caramel tone in storage. Don’t let its rugged looks fool you — inside is the most delicious, silky, nutty-orange flesh that roasts beautifully and stores exceptionally well.

This compact trailing variety is both charming and practical, offering high yields and stunning ornamental appeal right in the garden. If you love unique heirloom vegetables with standout flavour, Black Futsu is a must-grow. It’s also a reliable producer in Canadian gardens, even in shorter growing seasons, provided it gets a sunny spot and warm soil.

• Excellent storing squash
• Sweet, nutty orange flesh
• Compact, trailing vines
• Distinctive ribbed and bumpy skin
• Suitable for ornamental autumn displays
  
• Ecologically grown

Plant Details

• Scientific Name: Cucurbita moschata
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Seed Type: Heirloom, Open Pollinated
• Light Requirements: Full sun
• Plant Height: Vining variety
• Seed Depth: 1 in (2.5 cm)
• Spacing: 3–4 ft (90–120 cm)
• Bloom Time: Summer (fruiting late summer to fall)
• Days to Maturity: 100–110 days
• Edible / Toxic: Edible
  
• Germination: 7–14 days at 21–27°C (70–80°F)

Growing Instructions
Direct sow outdoors once soil has warmed thoroughly, or start indoors 3–4 weeks before last frost for a head start. Plant in rich, well-drained soil with plenty of compost, as squash are hungry feeders. Provide ample space for vines to trail, or train them along a sturdy low trellis. Water deeply and consistently, especially during fruit set. Harvest when rinds are tough and stems begin to dry. Black Futsu stores extremely well; its flavour actually improves after a few weeks of curing.

FAQ
Q: How many Black Fatsu squash fruits can I expect per plant?
A: Most plants produce 3–5 medium-sized squash, depending on soil fertility and growing conditions.

Q: Does the skin colour stay dark?
A: It begins dark green but transforms to a beautiful buff or caramel shade as it cures — totally normal and part of its charm.