Organic 'Violina' butternut squash

Organic 'Violina' butternut squash (Cucurbita moschata), offered by Les Jardins de l'Écoumène

A very old variety originating from Italy, particularly the Emilia-Romagna region, the 'Violina' butternut squash, also known as Violina Rugosa, is a vigorous and productive annual plant, recognizable by its elongated shape reminiscent of a violin and its beige to light brown skin. Its bright orange flesh is dense, sweet, and creamy , with notes of hazelnut and sweet potato, making it ideal for roasted dishes, soups, purées, gratins, and desserts. With excellent storage qualities , large fruits reaching up to 50 cm in length and weighing 2 to 4 kg, and well-suited to cold climates down to zone 3b , it is a reliable choice for autumn and winter harvests.

Sowing type: Indoors or direct sowing
Sowing depth: 2 to 3 cm
Spacing between plants: 90 to 120 cm
Row spacing: 120 to 150 cm
Plant spread: 150 to 250 cm
Plant height: Approximately 200 to 300 cm
Quantity per packet: 20 seeds
Germination: 6 to 12 days at 26 to 32 °C
Number of days for harvest: Approximately 90 days
Hardiness: Zone 3b

Farming method

Sow indoors 3 to 4 weeks before the last frost or directly outdoors once the soil has warmed up. It prefers full sun and rich, deep, well-drained soil; regular watering promotes vigorous growth and the development of well-formed fruit.

Harvesting and uses

Harvest when the skin is hard and evenly colored, before the first frosts. Flavorful, versatile, and long-lasting , the 'Violina' butternut squash can be stored for several months in a cool, dry place, providing a valuable supply of comforting flavors throughout the winter.