About
Cucurbita moschata 'Ultra Butternut' is a prolific variety of butternut squash known for its elongated, cylindrical shape, tapering to a bulbous end opposite the stem. The fruits typically measure around 37 cm (15 in) in length and 10 cm (4 in) in diameter. This cultivar grows on sprawling vines that can extend up to 2.5 m (8 ft) in length. The smooth, pale orange skin encases bright orange flesh that offers a sweet, nutty flavor. Harvest is best in autumn, and once fully mature, the fruits store well through the winter months, often weighing in at approximately 4 kg (9 lbs).
About the genus
This genus consists of small, annual herbaceous plants that either climb or trail. Several species within this group are cultivated for their edible fruits and other applications. They originate from Central and South America. The flowers are typically solitary and star-shaped, exhibiting a golden-yellow hue. The leaves are characterized by their palmately lobed structure and are adorned with fine, prickly hairs.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial
- Habit
- Trailing
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 1 year
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants
- Toxicity
- Humans/Pets: If crop is bitter, don't eat or feed to pets. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in fertile, moisture retentive but well drained, acidic to neutral soil in full sun. Sow indoors March to May in good quality seed compost. Sow the seeds on their side 1cm deep and maintain a constant temperature of 18-21C. Feed regularly with a high potassium fertiliser when the first fruits start to swell. See cucurbit cultivation
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to grey moulds and powdery mildews