Fairy squash is a hardy, disease resistent and prolific growing hybrid squash of the winter squash family, C. moschata.

The fairy squash, roughly oval and top-shaped, is lightweight and consumer friendly, weighing an average of two pounds. The squash’s rind has variegated patterns with colors of pine and peanuts when young, eventually losing its green stripes with maturity. Its flesh, a rich deep pumpkin orange in color, is dense and moist with a large cottony and fibrous seed cavity. Though fragrant and firm when raw, it gains a rich, sweet, nutty flavor and velvety texture when cooked.

Serving Ideas

Fairy squash is a very versatile winter squash. It can be used for both savory and sweet recipes in soups, stews, pies, baked goods, roasted and stuffed, whole or halved. Its flavor profiles are similar to butternut squash, thus it can be readily substituted for a recipe calling for butternut squash. Quintessential companion ingredients include butter, brown sugar, rosemary, sage, sesame, ginger, chiles, baking spices, almonds, pistachios, parmesan cheese, pears, apples, raisins, poultry and pork.

Geography/History

The fairy squash’s family, C. moschata has contested indigenous origins, although its cultivation throughout the 17th Century was predominantly in Asia. There are no botanically records of it prior to 1688, but it was first introduction to Europe was via Southern Asia in the 1800's. Wild relatives are indigenous to Central and South America and it has been botanically concluded that all four cultivated species of Cucurbita, C. Pepo, C. moschata, C. maxima and C. ficifolia are of NewWorld origin. Where the fairy squash entered the picture is still uncertain, though it is known to be a hybrid. It is grown throughout the Americas, Asia and Europe, where it is referred to as a pumpkin. Fairy squashes are a early maturing winter squash, reaching maturity within 90 days. They have a long season and great post-vine storage qualities.

Seasons/Availability

The fairy squash is available in late fall through winter.