Agricultural Information:

Plant Family: Cucurbitaceae
Scientific name: Cucurbita pepo

Summer squash plants are an annual plant that is bushy and sprawling, with large, rough leaves and bright yellow or orange flowers native to the Americas. The fruits are typically harvested young, while their skin is still tender and edible. Common shapes include elongated (like zucchini), scalloped (pattypan), or crookneck.

Summer squashes are commonly eaten raw, sautéed, grilled, roasted, baked into breads, or spiralized as noodles. The blossoms are also edible and often stuffed or fried.

The term “summer squash” refers to its short storage life compared to winter squashes (like butternut squash), which can be stored for months.