Cucurbitacées • Cucurbita maxima

Bright Red Pumpkin from Étampes - Organic

"A generous roundness, with an autumnal taste and a flesh as soft as a dream."

$4.49

Number of seeds 20 seeds

Originating in France , the Étampes Red Bright Pumpkin is an iconic heirloom variety , closely linked to the imagery of autumn. Its broad, flattened shape , smooth, vibrant orange-red skin , and impressive size make it a squash that is as decorative as it is nutritious. Once widely cultivated in 19th-century Parisian markets, it has retained its place in contemporary organic gardens thanks to its hardiness, productivity , and mild, slightly sweet flavor .

In the garden, it develops a generous, creeping habit , with large, velvety leaves that cover the ground and protect its rounded fruits from direct sunlight. It adapts well to long crop rotations , thrives in rich soil, and elegantly heralds the arrival of autumn harvests .

In the kitchen, its meltingly tender orange flesh is ideal for soups, purées, gratins, tarts, or jams , bringing warmth and sweetness to seasonal dishes. It's a pumpkin that keeps well in a cellar and provides a consistent and generous source of sustenance during the colder months.

Growing climate: Temperate to cool climate
Sowing difficulty level: Medium
Care required: Regular
Note: Requires rich, well-drained soil; moderately tolerates cool temperatures.

In the kitchen, the Rouge Vif d'Étampes reveals a meltingly tender orange flesh, ideal for velvety soups, smooth purées, golden gratins, rustic tarts, and autumn jams. Its sweet, mild flavor pairs beautifully with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger, which highlight its natural richness. It can also be found in creams, flans, or seasonal desserts, where its smooth texture and vibrant color bring warmth and comfort.

This is an excellent storage squash: it can be kept for several months in a cool, dry place, extending its bounty well beyond the autumn harvest. Present in both rustic and more refined cuisine, it embodies both nourishing simplicity and the indulgence of vegetables.