Edible squash? - Ask Extension
These grew In our yard as an extension of the neighbors yard. Are they edible or are they ornamental?
Knowledgebase
Edible squash? #922123
Asked November 18, 2025, 2:46 PM EST
These grew In our yard as an extension of the neighbors yard. Are they edible or are they ornamental?
Lane County Oregon
Expert Response
That is winter squash, likely a Black Futsu. Some winter squash varieties are grown to be decorative, so while they are technically edible, they may lack flavor or have a bitter taste that can cause indigestion. Decorative varieties tend to have thicker rinds that are difficult to cut through. Varieties that are bred and grown to be edible are sweeter and have much better flavor.
Black Futsu is an heirloom variety that has deeply ribbed, bumpy skin that changes colors as it cures. It is dark green when young and changes to pale orange-brown or buff color at maturity. It may be covered in a white or greyish dusty "bloom" on the surface. It has a a nice nutty flavor and thin edible skin. Based on the photos, it looks like a Black Futsu, but there are 100s of varieties of winter squash, so you may want to ask your neighbor what variety they grew to confirm.
Black Futsu is an heirloom variety that has deeply ribbed, bumpy skin that changes colors as it cures. It is dark green when young and changes to pale orange-brown or buff color at maturity. It may be covered in a white or greyish dusty "bloom" on the surface. It has a a nice nutty flavor and thin edible skin. Based on the photos, it looks like a Black Futsu, but there are 100s of varieties of winter squash, so you may want to ask your neighbor what variety they grew to confirm.
