Plant · P-208

Cushaw Squash

Cucurbita argyrosperma

Cushaw squash is a hot-weather, borer-resistant squash - specifically the green-striped form, which an extension source names directly as one of the varieties least attractive to the squash vine borer that threatens most other squash. It stores up to six months after harvest, a real winter store just short of butternut's nine, and each fruit runs 10 to 20 pounds, so even a small planting produces bulk. It tolerates heat well but dislikes wet feet, so it needs a raised bed or mound on heavy clay rather than a low spot that holds water after a storm. Unlike some of its relatives, its sprouting seed carries a known toxin, so the seed is dry-roasted or ground rather than sprouted for food or feed.