Let's delve into the colorful world of Pumpkins (Cucurbita pepo). These annual plants come in various shapes and hues, but they're best recognized by their big, round bodies and ridged, orange stems.
Pumpkins belong to the squash family Cucurbitaceae. Their name traces back to the Greek words "kookos" (pumpkin) and "pepon" (ripe). Pumpkins are not just garden eye candy; they're incredibly versatile in the kitchen, making appearances in various colors and types. Look out for those telltale identification signs: a plump, round physique with that signature ribbed, orange stem. The stem is typically slender, while the pumpkin itself is smooth and robust.
