Pumpkins are a popular fall fruit grown around the world. They come in many different shapes, sizes, colors and varieties. While there are hundreds of different types of pumpkins, they can generally be categorized into four main types: carving pumpkins, baking pumpkins, ornamental pumpkins and gourmet pumpkins.
Carving Pumpkins
Carving pumpkins, also sometimes known as jack-o’-lantern pumpkins, are the most common type of pumpkin grown in the United States. These pumpkins are typically large, round, orange pumpkins that are grown specifically for carving during Halloween. The thick flesh of carving pumpkins makes them ideal for carving intricate designs and faces into. Some of the most popular varieties of carving pumpkins include:
- Connecticut Field Pumpkin: A classic, round, orange carving pumpkin that ranges from 10-20 pounds.
- Howden Pumpkin: A tall, round carving pumpkin that can grow over 30 pounds.
- Big Max Pumpkin: One of the largest carving pumpkin varieties, typically growing over 100 pounds.
- Kool Klear Pumpkin: A white carving pumpkin known for its ghostly faces.
Carving pumpkins are grown to have strings and seeds on the inside that are easily removed when carving. They have been bred to have a thicker outer shell that can stand up to carving. The flesh is firmer which allows carved designs to hold their shape better. Carving pumpkins are generally not used for eating, as the flesh tends to be stringy and watery.
Baking Pumpkins
Baking pumpkins, also known as sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins, are pumpkin varieties grown specifically for cooking. They are smaller and sweeter than carving pumpkins, with flesh that is dense and sweet. The most popular baking pumpkin is the Dickinson pumpkin. Some other common varieties include:
- New England Pie Pumpkin: A small, round variety with sweet, dense orange flesh.
- Baby Pam Pumpkin: A miniature pumpkin, 4-6 inches in diameter.
- Long Island Cheese Pumpkin: A flat, tan pumpkin with rich, sweet flesh.
- Cinderella Pumpkin: A French variety known for its sweetness.
Baking pumpkins have thick, creamy flesh with a sweet flavor reminiscent of sweet potatoes. They are specifically grown to have high sugar content and low water content, which makes them perfect for pies, soups, breads and other baked goods. The flesh is smooth, not stringy, allowing it to easily be mashed or pureed.
Ornamental Pumpkins
Ornamental pumpkins are types of pumpkins grown specifically for decoration rather than for carving or eating. They come in a wide variety of shapes, colors and sizes. Some common ornamental pumpkins include:
- Cinderella Pumpkin: A French variety with a flat shape and deep ribs.
- Turk’s Turban: Distinctive color pattern that resembles a turban.
- Casper Pumpkin: A white teardrop-shaped pumpkin.
- Big Moose Pumpkin: Bright orange and shaped like moose antlers.
- Jack Be Little Pumpkin: Tiny pumpkin variety, only 3-5 inches across.
- Blue Doll Pumpkin: A unique blue-gray color.
Ornamental pumpkins are bred for their unusual shapes, colors and surface textures – characteristics that make them interesting additions to autumn displays. The rind of ornamental pumpkins is often thicker than carving pumpkins. Their flesh is not as sweet as baking pumpkins. However, some ornamental pumpkins like the Cinderella can be used for cooking. Ornamental pumpkins are best used for decorating front porches, mantels and dining tables.
Gourmet Pumpkins
Gourmet pumpkins are edible pumpkins bred specifically for their exceptional taste and culinary uses. They tend to be smaller in size than carving pumpkins, with a thicker, sweeter flesh. Some common gourmet pumpkin varieties include:
- Rouge Vif D’Etampes: A red-orange French pumpkin known for excellent flavor.
- Fairy Tale Pumpkin: A French pumpkin with a sweet, nutty taste.
- Musquée de Provence: A deeply ribbed tan pumpkin with creamy texture.
- Jarrahdale Pumpkin: A blue-green Australian heirloom variety.
Gourmet pumpkins are valued for their versatility in the kitchen. Their flesh is smooth, sweet and thick, making them excellent for soups, stews, pasta sauces, pies and roasted dishes. Unlike carving pumpkins, gourmet varieties are specially bred to have superior edible qualities. The seeds of gourmet pumpkins are also valued for their large size and delicate flavor.
Conclusion
There are four main types of pumpkins: carving pumpkins, baking pumpkins, ornamental pumpkins and gourmet pumpkins. Carving pumpkins are large, round pumpkins ideal for Halloween jack-o-lanterns. Baking pumpkins are smaller and sweeter for making pies, soups and baked goods. Ornamental pumpkins have unusual colors, shapes and textures that make them perfect autumn decorations. Gourmet pumpkins are culinary varieties valued for their sweet flesh and versatility in cooking. With hundreds of pumpkin varieties to choose from, there is a type that is perfect for any need.
