Squash

Squash, any of several edible plants in the Cucurbitaceae family. These vegetables, related to the pumpkin, are eaten cooked or raw. Different species both look and taste different from one another; they have in common a 5-pointed leaf that grows from either a bush or vine. Summer squash (zucchini, crookneck, pattypan) are harvested when immature, about 2 months after planting. Winter squash (Hubbard, acorn, butternut) are harvested when mature, up to 4 months after planting, and can be stored. Squash, popular with home gardeners and truck farmers, were introduced to settlers by Native Americans.