Citrouille De Touraine (Tours Pumpkin) seed
The rare Citrouille De Touraine pumpkin is a French heirloom that was first discovered back in the 1800's. They were grown to feed livestock but were later valued for potential health benefits. The seeds were pressed for their generous amount of oil and used for the potential treatment of tapeworms. Now days, the French grow these for their prized seeds.
If you view the thumbnail in the description, you will see the seeds are quite large with a hug margin around them These are similar to the silver edge pumpkin. Once roasted, these are said to be some of the best pumpkin seeds one has ever eaten. The flesh can be consumed as well, but only for specific cooking methods. Since the Tours pumpkin has thick and spongey flesh (almost similar to a gourd), it must be used in soups, stews, etc. So any dish that would allow it. to be parboiled, steamed, etc. works best. The flesh is highly nutritious and tasty to boot.
Each fruit can reach close to 20 pounds. Each pumpkin stands tall and oblong with light green and dark stripes. If left to sun cure, the light green striations will turn orange.
Seed count:10
Botanic name:
C.pepo
Plant spacing:
24" - 36" apart
10' - 12' for rows
Color:
Dark green and orange stripes
Sowing depth:
1"
Sun requirements:
Full sun
Utilization:
The flesh of the Tours pumpkin is edible and leans towards the savory side. This pumpkin is mainly grown for it's precious seeds. The seeds can be roasted or toasted and seasoned, they can also be pressed for their oils.
Frost hardy:
No
Maturity days:
90-100 days
Life cycle:
Annual
Can I start indoors:
Yes
Container friendly:
Not recommended
Other names:
Tours pumpkin, Tours squash, French squash, French field pumpkin
Vine Habit:
Full vine
Weight:
16-18 lbs.
Disease & Pest Resistance:
-