Seminole Pumpkin

Seminole Pumpkin Plant in 6-Inch Pot Available in Jupiter, FL

The Seminole Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) is a legendary heirloom crop native to Florida and traditionally grown by the Seminole people for generations. Exceptionally well adapted to the heat, humidity, and pests of the Southeast, this vigorous vine produces beautiful tan-orange pumpkins with rich, sweet flesh perfect for soups, roasting, pies, and baking.

Unlike many pumpkins that struggle in Florida’s climate, Seminole pumpkins thrive in South Florida’s long growing season. In a 6-inch pot, this healthy starter plant is ready to quickly establish and begin climbing, sprawling, and producing abundant fruit.

Hardy, productive, and deeply rooted in Florida’s agricultural heritage, it’s one of the most reliable pumpkins you can grow in the region.

Care & Growing Info (Optimized for South Florida):

Sunlight: Full sun—at least 6 to 8 hours daily for strong vine growth and fruit production.

Watering: Moderate to high. Water deeply and consistently, especially during flowering and fruit development. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between watering.

Soil: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil enriched with compost or organic matter. Seminole pumpkin thrives in South Florida soils when fertility is improved with organic material.

Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced organic fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season. Adding compost or worm castings supports strong vine growth and fruit production.

Growth Habit: Vigorous trailing vine that can grow 15–30 feet or more. Provide space to sprawl or train on a sturdy trellis or fence.

Temperature: USDA Zones 9–11. Exceptionally tolerant of heat, humidity, and many pests that affect other squash varieties.

Maintenance: Low. Provide space for vines and maintain good airflow. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Harvest & Seasonality:

Planting Time: Best planted late spring through summer in South Florida.

Harvest Time: Typically fall through early winter (about 90–120 days after planting).

How to Harvest: Harvest when pumpkins turn tan-orange and the rind becomes firm. Cut fruit from the vine leaving a short stem attached.

Fruit Characteristics: Medium to large pumpkins with tan-orange skin and deep orange flesh. Flavor is sweet, rich, and similar to butternut squash with excellent storage quality.

Medicinal & Nutritional Benefits:

Seminole pumpkin is rich in beta-carotene (Vitamin A), Vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. It supports immune health, eye health, digestion, and overall vitality while providing a nutrient-dense, naturally sweet vegetable.

Ideal For:

• South Florida vegetable gardens

• Heat-tolerant heirloom crops

• Food forests and edible landscapes

• Trellised garden systems

• Gardeners seeking reliable pumpkins in humid climates

Plant Classification:

Scientific Name: Cucurbita moschata
Common Name: Seminole Pumpkin
Plant Type: Annual fruiting vine
Family: Cucurbitaceae (squash and pumpkin family)
Class: Dicot – Broadleaf vine
Growth Form: Trailing or climbing vine with tendrils
Evergreen/Deciduous: Annual—completes life cycle in one growing season
Perennial or Annual: Annual

Container Size: 6-inch pot