Pumpkins' Journey Through Time
October in the U.S. brings cooler weather, vibrant fall colors, and pumpkin-spiced everything, marking the peak of pumpkin season. Shelley Mitchell, an extension specialist at Oklahoma State University, explores the history and significance of pumpkins.
Pumpkins come in a wide range of colors, including red, yellow, white, blue, and green, and vary in size and texture. They can be smooth, warty, miniature, or giant.
The word "pumpkin" comes from the Greek word "peopon," meaning "large melon."
Botanically, pumpkins are fruits because they contain seeds and belong to the squash family, Cucurbitaceae. As an expert, Mitchell educates people about the plant's storied history and its prominence today.
Author's summary: Pumpkins have a rich history spanning thousands of years.