Heirloom Pumpkin
Imagine growing the very pumpkin that inspired Cinderella's magical coach. This antique French heirloom, also known as Rouge Vif D'Étampes, creates dramatically flattened, deep-sutured fruits that are unmistakably fairytale-like. Growing 6 inches tall and 18 inches across with stunning red-orange skin, these 100 to 109-day beauties thrive in zones 3-13 and transform any autumn display into something truly enchanting.
Full Sun
Moderate
3-13
24in H x ?in W
Annual
Moderate
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The Cinderella pumpkin stands as one of gardening's most storied treasures, reportedly cultivated by the Pilgrims and served at the second Thanksgiving dinner. Its dramatically flattened shape with deep sutures creates the classic fairytale silhouette that inspired Disney's Cinderella carriage. Beyond its stunning ornamental appeal, this variety offers some of the finest eating quality among pumpkins, with luxuriously smooth, silky flesh that's sweeter than typical carving types, making it exceptional for both kitchen and autumn decoration.
This versatile heirloom excels in the kitchen where its sweet, silky flesh transforms into exceptional purees for pies, breads, muffins, cakes, and cookies. The smooth texture makes it ideal for canning, while chunks tossed in olive oil and roasted with other vegetables create wonderful savory dishes. Beyond culinary applications, its dramatic fairytale shape and deep sutures make it a stunning centerpiece for autumn decorations, though the deep ridges can make carving more challenging than traditional jack-o'-lantern varieties.
Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the anticipated transplant date in 4-inch biodegradable pots, though this is only recommended for very short growing seasons. Maintain soil temperature between 70-90°F for germination.
Transplant carefully after all frost danger has passed and soil has warmed to 65°F, being extra gentle to avoid disturbing the roots. Work compost and fertilizer into each hill before transplanting.
Direct sowing is recommended 2-4 weeks after the average last frost date when soil temperature reaches 70-90°F. Plant seeds 1 inch deep in prepared hills.
Leave pumpkins on the vine until fully mature when rinds become firm and deep red-orange. The fruits can tolerate light frost but must be protected from hard freezes. After harvesting, field cure for 1-2 weeks in dry, sunny weather to toughen the skin, or cure indoors at 80°F in well-ventilated conditions during rainy weather.
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“This remarkable pumpkin carries centuries of American history in its deeply sutured form. The variety reportedly graced the tables of early American settlers, with historical accounts suggesting it was among the pumpkins cultivated by the Pilgrims and served at the second Thanksgiving dinner. Originally known as Rouge Vif D'Étampes, this French heirloom made its way across the Atlantic to become part of America's agricultural heritage, surviving through generations of careful seed saving to reach modern gardens where it continues to enchant both children and adults with its fairytale appearance.”