Description

Cinderella Pumpkin (also known as Rouge Vif d’Étampes) is a classic French heirloom winter squash prized for its deeply ribbed shape, rich reddish-orange skin, and distinctive flattened “fairy tale carriage” appearance. It is widely used for ornamental displays, farm markets, and seasonal décor, and also offers excellent culinary quality with sweet, dense flesh.

This variety produces vigorous vines and reliable yields under warm growing conditions. Fruits are typically large, heavily ribbed, and very uniform in shape, making them especially popular for decorative and wholesale fall sales. While it is often grown for appearance, the flesh is excellent for baking, soups, and purees.

• Type: Heirloom winter squash (Cucurbita maxima)
• Direct sow: After last frost when soil is warm
• Sun: Full sun
• Spacing: 6–8 feet between hills
• Vine length: 10–15 feet
• Fruit size: 15–25 lbs
• Days to maturity: 95–120 days

Cinderella pumpkins thrive in rich, well-drained soil with consistent moisture and strong fertility throughout the season. Seeds should be planted after soils have fully warmed, with vines given ample space to spread. Fruits should be harvested when fully colored and the rind is hard, then cured in a warm, dry location to enhance storage life and deepen flavor.

Additional information