Which Cucurbita species produce zucchini, common pumpkins, and ornamental gourds?

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The plant species Cucurbita pepo is responsible for producing zucchini, common pumpkins, and various ornamental gourds.1

Within the order Cucurbitales and the family Cucurbitaceae, C. pepo is a highly diverse species that has been cultivated for approximately 10,000 years. It encompasses several distinct horticultural groups, including:1

  • Zucchini: A variety of summer squash belonging to the Cucurbita pepo subsp. pepo Zucchini Group, typically harvested while the fruit is young and the rind is soft.23
  • Common Pumpkins: Certain varieties of C. pepo, often referred to as field pumpkins, are grown for culinary use and as autumn decorations.41
  • Ornamental Gourds: Many varieties of C. pepo—specifically those within the subspecies Cucurbita pepo ovifera—are cultivated for their attractive, hard-shelled, and often warty fruits, which are used primarily for decorative purposes rather than consumption.51