FREE: Jamaican Pumpkin Squash Vine ( 5 )

The listing, Jamaican Pumpkin Squash Vine ( 5 ) has ended.

The Jamaican Pumpkin Vine ( AKA: Calabaza) is a creeping, annual tropical vine with large lobed leaves and branching tendrils. It is very pretty when growing and is Hardy in the full Sun. Grows at a rapid fast rate and produces Flowers and Fruit all season long.

The skin color reflects hybrids, varying from dark green to light yellow. The flesh can also vary in color, but most common is bright orange or yellow. Varieties differ somewhat in taste and texture, but are generally slightly sweet with a firm but soft texture. They resemble the flavor of an Acorn Squash somewhat.

Farmer's markets in South America offer varieties of calabaza in a fashion similar to the variety of apples that might be present in a North American market.

It is eaten many different ways, such as in Soups, Casseroles, stews, Sauces, Grilled, cakes, and candies. Some recipes that call for pumpkin allow calabaza to be used in its place

The taste is smooth and somewhat sweet. Calabaza is a good source of beta-carotene, some of which can be converted into Vitamin A.

The flower (squash blossom, flor de calabaza), is used as an ingredient in quesadillas, empanadas and other dishes in Mexican cuisine and New Mexican cuisine, and in pupusas in Salvadoran cuisine. Very Delish... It is Sold in Asian markets and is Quite Expensive.

The seeds, toasted and seasoned, known as pepitas, are a common snack and are very good. ( Also good for you)