A robust annual which creeps on the ground.
Fruits are large, variously-shape, brown with golden yellow flesh.
The interior of the fruit is hollow containing a number of large seeds attached to a surrounding placenta. It has many varieties, all of which are considered pumpkins or winter squashes. According to archaeological evidence, the plant has been growing in North and South America for several thousand years. A. De Candolle could not find the species in a truly wild state and it might be naturalised in Asia, Africa or America. Uses The fruit is prepared in a variety of ways as a vegetable or a soup.