Cucurbita, Latin for gourd, is part of the genus herbaceous in the gourd family native to the Americas that were growing here long before humans arrived. All squash varieties contain seeds and come from the flowering part of plants. The blossoms are also edible and can be used as a garnish or part of a recipe.Squash is botanically considered a fruit and not a vegetable as most people think; just like eggplant, tomatoes, avocados, and cucumbers. They are not as sweet as fruits and generally used in recipes as a vegetable. You can usually find squash in most grocery stores and farmer's markets year-round, not just during your local growing season.