We may never know what type of pumpkin Charlie Brown’s “Great Pumpkin” was. There several different varieties of giant pumpkins that it may have been. Here is a guide to the different types of giant pumpkins, including what they are used for and some points for gardeners.
Atlantic Giant Pumpkin: The Giant of Giant Pumpkins
The Atlantic Giant Pumpkin grows to between 200 and 300 lbs. It grows to be much larger than any of these other giant varieties of pumpkins. The flesh of this variety is surprisingly tasty, especially for its enormous size. Atlantic Giant Pumpkins have a classic orange appearance.
- · Size: 24 – 40 in.
- · Weight: 200-300 lbs.
Information for Pumpkin Growers:
Atlantic Giant Pumpkins have a long growing season. They need 120 days to mature. These pumpkins can be grown in hardiness zones 3-12.
Big Max Pumpkin: A Giant Jack-O-Lantern
The Big Max Pumpkin is one of the largest pumpkin varieties used for jack-o-lanterns. It can grow to be 100 lbs., but many are harvested before this weight. The Big Max Pumpkin has well-defined ribs and good handles. Its flesh grows to be 3 to 4 inches thick, making this a versatile pumpkin. In addition to carving, the Big Max variety can be used for canning or making pies.
- · Size: 17 – 18 in.
- · Weight: 100+ lbs.
Information for Pumpkin Growers:
The Big Max Pumpkin variety grows on vines, so it needs a lot of space to sprawl out over. This variety needs 100-120 days to mature. Big Maxes can be grown in hardiness zones 3-12.
Jaune Gros de Paris Pumpkin: A Giant Heirloom Pumpkin
The Juane Gros de Paris Pumpkin comes from France. Its name translates into Enlish as “The Big Yellow of Paris Pumpkin.” It has a yellow-pink appearance, which is different from many of the darker orange varieties. This giant pumpkin can grow to be 100 pounds or more, making it one of the largest historic types of pumpkins. In France, these pumpkins are used in soups, pies and more.
- · Size: 17-18 in. (can be larger)
- · Weight: 100+ lbs.
Information for Pumpkin Growers:
The Juane Gros de Paris Pumpkin is an heirloom pumpkin. It can be harder to grow than the newer hybrid types of pumpkins. Juane Gros De Paris Pumpkins have a long growing season.
Wyatt’s Wonder Pumpkin: A Classic, Giant Type of Pumpkin
Wyatts Wonder Pumpkins are among the smaller pumpkins among the giant pumpkins. They grow to be anywhere from 70 to 150 pounds. Many people prefer Wyatt’s Wonder Pumpkins over the other types of giant pumpkins, because of their appearance. Wyatt’s Wonder Pumpkins have a classic round, deep ribs and a dark orange color.
- · Size: 24-40 in.
- · Weight: 70-150 lbs.
Information for Pumpkin Growers:
Wyatt’s Wonder Pumpkins need 110 to 120 days to mature. They can be grown in small gardens, but need room send their vines along the ground. These can be grown in hardiness zones 3-12.
Charlie Brown’s “Great Pumpkin” may have been a Wyatt’s Wonder Pumpkin. It was large, deep orange and perfectly shaped. However, we can not speak definitively on the matter. The real question is: What variety will your next giant pumpkin be? Will you choose the largest, most historic, tastiest or best looking type of
Sources:
All Types of Pumpkins
Rob Toccs likes all things related to pumpkins, but foods with pumpkin are among his favorites.
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