Cucurbita maxima, commonly referred to as winter squash, is a warm-season annual vegetable vine that trails along the ground or climbs up structures using tendrils. It has yellow fruit-bearing flowers that are produced in the fall. The fruits have a mild flavor and can be fried, baked, added to pasta, used in soups, and more. Native to Central and South America, winter squash is an aggressive grower and prefers moderately moist soil with full access to sunlight. Winter squash is best suited for large landscapes, but performs well in vegetable gardens, on trellises, and as a cover for exposed soil. It is easily sown from seed, especially when soils are warm. Cucurbita maxima should be transplanted in late spring, early summer, or after the last frost.