When fall comes around, we just can’t help but think about everything pumpkin and pumpkin spice! That’s when I started looking around for unique pumpkin varieties and came across these 9 cultivars that are unlike anything I’ve ever seen!
Since pumpkins can take a bit to grow, it’s a great idea to start planning for next year now. For a great autumn harvest, make sure to plant your pumpkins between May and June!
But right now, it’s the perfect time to be on the lookout for these rare varieties. Why not check out your local pumpkin patch and see if you can find some of them there? These pumpkin varieties are one-of-a-kind and great for your fall garden next year:
1. Cucurbita maxima ‘Fireball’
‘Fireball’ resembles a tiny pumpkin but can grow to a medium size, reaching about 12″ in height and width. The fruits typically weigh about nine pounds when they’re fully mature. They’re usually round, but they can have a bit of a flat top too. They’re really tough against diseases.
These squashes have a unique and playful look to them. When they’re not quite ripe, you’ll see dark green ribs against a yellow backdrop. As they grow up, the ribs turn a nice dark orange, while the stem stays a rich deep green. They’re definitely edible, but the main reason they’re grown is for their ornamental appeal.
2. Cucurbita pepo ‘Black Kat’
This adorable little variety is compact and comes with some incredible characteristics. Super easy for the kiddos to manage, ‘Black Kat’ tips the scales at just a pound or two when it’s all grown up. The vines are easy to handle, growing to a length of six to eight feet, and they reach maturity pretty quickly in about 75-80 days.
The exterior of ‘Black Kat’ is a deep, rich green that’s hard to describe. When they’re ripe, they look almost black. They really add a nice touch to bigger, more colorful pumpkins. This variety has a really fun feature: when you cut into it, the flesh is a vibrant orange, even though the rind is dark.
3. Cucurbita maxima ‘Blue Doll’
Unlike ‘Black Kat,’ ‘Blue Doll’ is big and vibrant. This is definitely one of the prettiest blue varieties you’ll come across. ‘Blue Doll’ pumpkins are pretty big and quite heavy. They can definitely weigh as much as 20 pounds. The extra-long vines really pack a punch with their impressive volume.
‘Blue Doll’ features stunning blue-green skin. It’s got a more square shape than round, with a little dip on top, which makes it perfect for stacking pumpkins! The inside has a nice pale orange color, perfect for baking! They can stick around for quite a while, lasting up to three months.
4. Cucurbita maxima ‘One Too Many’
If you’re on the hunt for a unique and fun carving pumpkin, check out ‘One Too Many.’ This cultivar is super easy to grow and can get really impressive, weighing up to 20 pounds! The full-sized vines typically yield around two or three fruits each.
‘One Too Many’ has a nice fullness and roundness to it. The skin is quite attractive, featuring a white base with these unique reddish-orange veins scattered throughout. Their fun name is inspired by how someone’s eyes look after a night of having a bit too much fun. The meat is tasty and perfect for a delicious pie.
5. Cucurbita maxima ‘Jarrahdale’
This blue variety is a nice medium size, typically weighing in at around 6-12 pounds when fully grown. They have a drum shape with flat tops and bottoms, which makes them perfect for stacking. Their stunning silvery blue skin looks amazing alongside more classic pumpkins.
‘Jarrahdale’ pumpkins are great for carving, but they do require a little extra effort. The flesh has a lovely golden and creamy look, featuring a smooth, stringless texture and a delightful nutty flavor. Cut this one open, drizzle some honey on top, and pop it in the oven for a tasty treat!
6. Cucurbita maxima ‘Red Warty Thing’
That’s a fun name for a really fun looking pumpkin! ‘Red Warty Thing’ definitely lives up to its name! These fruits weigh between 10 to 20 pounds and have a thick skin, making them perfect for storing for a long time. The vines stretch out quite a bit, but they typically only yield one or two fruits each.
This squash stands out with its thick, red skin. It has a lot of big bumps, which makes it look kind of warty. Inside, it’s all about charm and elegance. The smooth, creamy flesh is super tasty and perfect for cooking up something great. It also makes a really fun Jack-o-Lantern!
7. Cucurbitae maxima ‘Galeux d’Eysines’
It might not be the most beautiful pumpkin out there, but if you’re into cooking with pumpkins, ‘Galeux d’Eysines’ is definitely one of the sweetest options you can find.
The bumpy skin comes from their high sugar content, but they sure do have delicious, smooth flesh! This variety is perfect for making a delicious soup or sauce!
‘Galeux d’Eysines’ are medium-sized fruits that typically weigh around 10 to 15 pounds when they’re fully mature. Their unique skin really adds a fun touch to autumn decor and makes for great table centerpieces! They can be stored for quite a while, up to six months!
8. Cucurbita pepo ‘Crunchkin’
You’ve probably come across the cute ‘Munchkin’ pumpkins at various stores that sell them. This is their cousin, ‘Crunchkin,’ named for its extra thick and crunchy skin. This little variety takes around 80-100 days to mature and grows on long, strong vines.
The rind has a nice orange color with some light yellow speckles. These have long, slender stems and are perfect for craft projects since they’re easy for little hands to hold.
Their sweet flesh is perfect for baking, but you’ll need quite a few if you’re planning to whip up a pie with them.
9. Cucurbita pepo ‘Lil Pump-Ke-Mon’
‘Lil Pump-Ke-Mon’ is a little pumpkin bursting with character. It’s compact, yet it really stands out with its vibrant colors. This is yet another awesome craft option! Weighing in at just one to two pounds, it’s just right for small hands.
The fruits are tiny and a bit squished. The skin is a nice creamy white, while the ribs are adorned with orange and green stripes and speckles in those same colors. They’re perfect for roasting and serving individual portions during the holidays. Fill them up or add some seasoning for a fun and eye-catching side dish.
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