Chilacayote Seeds - Vegetable Plant for Home Gardens

Chilacayote is a vigorous heirloom climbing squash grown for its large edible fruits, tender shoots, and long storage life. Botanically known as Cucurbita ficifolia, it is also called Figleaf Gourd or Malabar Gourd due to its distinctive fig-shaped leaves. This warm-season vine thrives on trellises, fences, and spacious garden beds, producing abundant harvests of versatile fruits used in both sweet and savory dishes.

Features

• Produces large, edible heirloom squash fruits
• Vigorous climbing vine with high yields
• Long storage life after harvest
• Ideal for trellises, fences, and edible landscapes
• Tender shoots and young fruits are also edible
• Excellent for home gardens and heirloom collections
• Easy to grow in warm climates

Specifications

• Scientific Name: Cucurbita ficifolia
• Common Name (US): Chilacayote, Figleaf Gourd, Malabar Gourd, Black Seed Squash
• Seed Type / Variety: Heirloom Climbing Squash
• Growth Habit: Vigorous annual climbing vine
• USDA Zones: 3-11 (grown as a warm-season annual)
• Planting Season: Spring after the last frost
• Growing Season: Spring through Fall
• Sowing Season: March-June
• Sowing Season With Specific Months: March, April, May, June
• Germination Time and Conditions: 7-14 days in warm, moist, well-drained soil (70-90°F / 21-32°C)
• Sunlight Requirements: Full Sun
• Soil Requirements: Fertile, well-drained, organic-rich loamy soil (pH 6.0-7.0)
• Watering Needs: Moderate to High; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
• Mature Plant Size: 15-30 feet long with support
• Plant Spacing: 36-60 inches apart