About

Cucurbita pepo 'Ambassador' is a high-yielding zucchini variety that produces dark green fruits with firm white flesh. Harvesting occurs from July through September, allowing for an extended cropping season. Its compact growth habit makes it ideal for container gardening, especially in areas with limited space. The vibrant yellow flowers not only attract pollinators but are also edible and can be incorporated into various dishes.

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

Bushy

Foliage

Deciduous

Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Spread

0.5-1 metres

Time to full height

1 year

Suggested uses

Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens

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 or sowing seeds indoors for further advice

Pest resistance

Generally pest-free

Disease resistance

May be susceptible to grey moulds and powdery mildews