VegetableSquash
Ebony Acorn Squash
Ebony Acorn Squash is a dark, early-maturing acorn variety that delivers exceptional flavor in a compact 1.5 to 2 pound package. Bred for prolific production and superior taste, it reaches harvest in 90 to 99 days and thrives in hardiness zones 3 through 13. The thick-walled fruits store remarkably well, and the deep-orange flesh rivals even the legendary Hubbard squash for flavor, making it equally at home in a home garden or at market.
Photo © True Leaf Market
Growing Conditions
USDA Zone
3-13
Sunlight
Full Sun
Water
Moderate
Soil
Well-drained, Fertile Loam With Organic Matter
Growth Stats
30 in
Height
Spacing
48
Plant Profile
Sunlight
Full Sun
Water
Moderate
Zones
3-13
Size
30in H x ?in W
Growth
—
Care
High
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Highlights
Deep-orange flesh that is fine-textured, tender, dry, and sweet, with a flavor second only to Hubbard among acorn varieties. The prolific vines produce fruits larger and more abundantly than Table Queen, with thick walls and minimal seed cavity, so you get more usable flesh per squash. It tolerates poor soil conditions gracefully, stores for months without special treatment, and matures early enough to fit into most growing seasons.
Common Uses
Ebony Acorn Squash is roasted whole or halved, its natural cup-like form perfect for stuffing with grains, vegetables, or meat. The tender, sweet flesh also purees beautifully for soups and baked goods. Its long storage life means you can enjoy it months after harvest, making it a reliable winter vegetable for home cooks.
Growing Timeline
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Care Instructions
Direct Sow
Sow seeds directly in the garden after all danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Plant in hills or rows, allowing plenty of space for vigorous vine growth.
Harvesting
Harvest Ebony Acorn Squash when fruits reach 5 to 6 inches in diameter, around 90 to 99 days from sowing. The skin should be dark and firm to the touch, and the fruit should feel heavy for its size. Cut the squash from the vine with a sharp knife, leaving a short stem attached to improve storage life.
Growing Calendar
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Companion Planting
Ecology & Traits
Edible
Scientific Classification
Cucurbita pepo
Family
Cucurbitaceae
Genus
Cucurbita
Native Status
L48 (NI)PR (I)CAN (W)