Genus guide
Cucurbita — 29 species
Part of the Squash, melon & gourd family family (Cucurbitaceae)
Cucurbita is a genus of warm-season vining or bushy annuals from the Americas, encompassing familiar crops such as zucchini, pumpkin, butternut squash, and acorn squash. All species demand full sun — at least six to eight hours of direct light daily — and consistently moist, well-drained soil; they need roughly one inch of water per week, delivered at the root rather than overhead. The genus is confirmed non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA, making it one of the safer choices for pet-friendly edible gardens.
All Cucurbita species we cover
- 'Crookneck' Summer Squash
- 'Tromboncino' Squash
- Acorn squash
- Acorn Squash
- Atlantic Giant Pumpkin
- Buttercup Squash
- Butternut squash
- Carnival Squash
- Cheese Pumpkin
- Costata Romanesco Zucchini
- Courgette
- Crown Prince Squash
- Cushaw Squash
- Delicata squash
- Delicata Squash
- Fig-leaf Gourd
- Hubbard Squash
- Jack-o-Lantern Pumpkin
- Jarrahdale Pumpkin
- Kabocha Squash
- Miniature Pumpkin
- Patty Pan Squash
- Pumpkin
- Rouge Vif d'Etampes Pumpkin
- Spaghetti squash
- Spaghetti Squash
- Squash
- Yellow Crookneck Squash
- Zucchini / courgette
Cucurbita — frequently asked questions
Are Cucurbita plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Cucurbita are pet-safe. Of the 29 Cucurbita species we cover, 29 are non-toxic on the ASPCA list and 0 carry a toxic or mildly-toxic rating. Even so, confirm the individual species before trusting it around pets.
How much light do Cucurbita plants need?
Most Cucurbita do best in direct sun. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Cucurbita easy to care for?
Some Cucurbita suit more experienced growers — several want strong light, sharp drainage or a specific seasonal rhythm. Check the individual species page for the exact regime.
How many Cucurbita varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 29 Cucurbita species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Cucurbita, the rest follow closely.
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