'Green Lightning' Pattypan Squash

Pattypan squash 'Green Lightning' (Cucurbita pepo), offered by the seed company WH Perron

The 'Green Lightning' pattypan squash is one of the first varieties to offer such a vibrant green striped coloration . Its flat, slightly ruffled, voter's cap -shaped fruits are distinguished by their medium green color streaked with pale green , making them very decorative both in the garden and on the plate. Harvested young, they measure approximately 2.5 to 5 cm , with tender , fine flesh and a pronounced yet pleasant flavor . This variety perfectly combines aesthetics, yield, and taste .

Thanks to its early maturity , 'Green Lightning' is among the first squashes harvested each season. The plants are vigorous and productive, ideal for gardeners seeking a quick and bountiful harvest. Easy to grow in warm conditions, this pattypan squash is also prized for its versatility in the kitchen, whether sautéed, stuffed, or grilled.

Latin name: Cucurbita pepo
Maturity: Annual
Type: Pattypan squash (voter's cap)
Maturity after sowing: Approximately 45 days
Fruit shape: Round, flat
Fruit size: 2.5 to 5 cm (harvested young)
Color: Medium green with pale green stripes
Quantity per packet: Approximately 15 seeds
Formulation: Untreated
Uses: Vegetable garden, fresh food, summer dishes
Companion plants: Beetroot, borage, beans, marjoram, mint, corn, oregano, radish
Negative plants: Cabbage, potato, tomato

Cultivation method:

The 'Green Lightning' pattypan squash is a warm-season crop that thrives in temperatures between 18 and 27°C . It can be sown indoors approximately 3 to 4 weeks before the last frost , or sown directly in the garden once all risk of frost has passed. Choose a sunny location in warm, fertile, and well-drained soil .

Sow each seed approximately 2.5 cm deep , in mounds spaced 1.5 to 2 m apart . After germination, thin to keep the two or three strongest plants . Abundant and regular watering is essential to support rapid fruit growth. Adding organic matter and mulching after planting helps retain soil moisture.

In cooler regions, protect young plants with cloches or tunnels at the beginning of the season. Plants can also be placed on sturdy supports if space is limited.

Harvest :

Harvest pattypan squash when the flower has fallen from the tip of the fruit. Frequent harvesting at a young stage ensures tender flesh and optimal flavor. Do not allow the fruits to grow excessively large to preserve their delicate texture.

Early, decorative and delicious!

With its unique color, rapid growth, and excellent taste, the 'Green Lightning' pattypan squash is as beautiful as it is productive. Perfect for gardeners seeking originality and high yields, it brings a vibrant and delicious touch to both the vegetable garden and the table.