Black Futsu Pumpkin Seeds - 25 Heirloom Japanese Cucurbita moschata Seeds
Black Futsu is a striking Japanese heirloom pumpkin prized for its deeply ribbed, dark green-to-black skin that matures to a rich chestnut-bronze color. This Cucurbita moschata variety produces small to medium fruits with dense, sweet, nutty orange flesh that is excellent for roasting, soups, and baking. Its unique appearance and flavor make it a standout in the garden and kitchen.
Grown as an annual vine, Black Futsu adds visual interest to vegetable gardens, raised beds, and edible landscapes. The vigorous vines bear fruit that stores well, and the unusual color transformation from black to bronze is a delightful surprise for gardeners. Whether you are an heirloom enthusiast or a home cook seeking exceptional flavor, this pumpkin is a rewarding choice.
Plant Features
- Heirloom Japanese pumpkin with deeply ribbed, black-to-bronze skin
- Dense, sweet, nutty orange flesh ideal for culinary use
- Vigorous vining growth habit
- Fruits store well after harvest
- Unique color change from dark green/black to chestnut-bronze as it matures
Growing Information
- Botanical Name: Cucurbita moschata
- Plant Type: Annual vegetable
- Sunlight: Full sun
- Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter
- Water Requirements: Moderate; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
- Growth Habit: Vining
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-11 (grown as annual)
- Bloom Season: Summer
- Mature Height: Vines can spread 10-15 feet
- Spacing: 24-36 inches between plants
Planting & Care
Sow Black Futsu seeds directly outdoors after the last frost date, when soil has warmed to at least 70°F (21°C). Plant seeds 1 inch deep in hills or rows, spacing 24-36 inches apart. For earlier starts, begin seeds indoors 2-4 weeks before transplanting, using biodegradable pots to avoid root disturbance. Keep soil evenly moist during germination, which typically takes 7-14 days.
Once established, water regularly, especially during dry spells, and mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Provide plenty of space for vines to spread or offer a trellis for vertical growth. Harvest when the skin hardens and the color deepens to bronze, typically 90-100 days after sowing. Cure fruits in a warm, dry spot for a week to improve storage life.
What's Included
25 Black Futsu Pumpkin Seeds (Cucurbita moschata).