.png)
Pumpkins are synonymous with fall, and while you might be familiar with pumpkin pie and jack-o’-lanterns, there’s much more to these iconic gourds. Whether you’re a Halloween fanatic or just curious about the wonders of pumpkins, here are ten surprising facts to carve into your knowledge this October.
1. Pumpkins Are Technically Fruits
Though many treat pumpkins as vegetables, they are technically fruits. In botanical terms, a fruit is the part of the plant that develops from the flower and contains seeds. So, the pumpkin qualifies, making that slice of pumpkin pie a fruity treat!
2. Pumpkins Were Once Used as Containers
Early Native American tribes had a clever use for pumpkins beyond food. They dried them out to make bowls and storage containers. Talk about sustainable living long before it was trendy!
3. The World's Largest Pumpkin Weighs Over 2,700 Pounds
The record for the heaviest pumpkin was set in 2023 in Minnesota, where a pumpkin tipped the scales at a jaw-dropping 2,749 pounds. That’s heavier than most cars!
4. Every Part Of The Pumpkin Is Edible
Every part of the pumpkin is edible, making it one of the most versatile plants. The tough skin can be roasted or pureed, while the seeds, also known as pepitas, are rich in protein and healthy fats, perfect for roasting as a crunchy snack or adding to salads. Young pumpkin leaves can be steamed or sautéed, offering a mild flavor similar to spinach, and the delicate pumpkin flowers, or squash blossoms, are often stuffed and fried or added to soups and salads for a unique touch. Even the stem is edible, though tough, and can be grated into dishes for added flavor.
5. Pumpkins Are Grown on Every Continent Except Antarctica
Pumpkins are incredibly versatile and can be grown almost anywhere in the world. From the Americas to Europe, Asia, and Africa, they thrive—just not in icy Antarctica.
6. The Tradition of Carving Pumpkins Began with Turnips
Before pumpkins, the Irish carved turnips for Halloween, using them to ward off evil spirits. When they immigrated to America, they found pumpkins more abundant and easier to carve, thus starting the modern jack-o’-lantern tradition.
7. Pumpkin Can Be Used in Traditional Medicine
In some cultures, pumpkin is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including digestive issues and to boost immunity.
8. There Are Over 45 Different Pumpkin Varieties
From tiny decorative gourds to massive pumpkins fit for weighing competitions, there are more than 45 different varieties of pumpkins. Some are best for cooking, while others are perfect for carving or display.
9. Pumpkin Flowers Are Edible
Both male and female pumpkin flowers are edible, often used in culinary dishes around the world. In many cultures, they’re fried, stuffed, or even used in soups for a delicious seasonal delicacy.
10. Pumpkins Can Grow 20 Pounds A Day
Under the right conditions, pumpkins can grow up to 20 pounds a day! With the right care and climate, they thrive, leading to some impressive specimens.