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turk's turbin

Scientific Name: Clerodendrum indicum

Family: Verbenaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Shrub, Tree

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Turk's Turban Squash: A Decorative and Edible Delight

The Turk's Turban squash, with its distinctive shape and colorful appearance, is a versatile plant often used both for ornamental purposes and as a winter squash.

Common Names

  • Turk's Turban
  • French Turban
  • Turk's Cap
  • Aladdin's Turban
  • Mexican Hat

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cucurbita maxima 'Turks Turban' or Cucurbita pepo (in some instances)
  • Family: Cucurbitaceae (the gourd family)
  • Note: The text mentions that it can be referred to as a squash, a pumpkin, or a gourd, reflecting the ambiguity in common usage.
  • Synonyms: Giraumon (French)

Considerations for Pets

  • The text describes the Turk's Turban as having a very thick skin.

Considerations for Children

  • The text describes the Turk's Turban as having a very thick skin.

Distribution and Habitat

This is an old variety from France (pre-1820). It is now a popular variety for decoration and cultivation in home gardens.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • The Turk's Turban squash is characterized by its distinctive shape, featuring a "cap" or "turban" on top.
  • Fruits are typically striped in red, orange, green, and white.
  • The fruit grows to approximately 8-12 inches in diameter.
  • The "blossom end button" is striped silver, green, and white with a scarlet top that measures 7-9 inches across.
  • The plant is considered a large winter squash.
  • Some flowers have tightly corkscrewed petals that never fully open.

Uses

  • The Turk's Turban squash is primarily used as an ornamental autumn decoration due to its colorful and unique appearance.
  • It is also edible and can be prepared similarly to butternut squash. The flesh is described as fine and thick orange.
  • The squash can be roasted, used in soups, or stuffed. It can even be used as an edible bowl.

Quirky Facts

  • The Turk's Turban is sometimes called "Mexican Hat," although the resemblance may not be immediately obvious to everyone.
  • The plant is so confusing that it can be difficult to determine whether to call it a squash, a pumpkin, or a gourd.
  • Some people find that the bright red flowers of the Turk's Turban "never really open." The petals tightly corkscrew.
  • No two fruits are exactly alike, making them memorable harvest decorations.