Fingerleaf Gourd. Coyote Gourd (Cucurbita digitata)

Family: Cucurbitaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Cucurbita digitata is a prostrate vine with a deep root found in hot, arid regions with low rainfall. It is one of only a few xerophyte species in the genus Cucurbita. As a Carbon Farming Solutions plant it is a good protein-oil staple Crop; each white seed is about 35% protein and 50% fat.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Carbon Farming Solutions - Staple Crop: protein-oil (The term staple crop typically refers to a food that is eaten routinely and accounts for a dominant part of people's diets in a particular region of the world) . — Carbon Farming Solutions - Staple Crop: protein-oil (The term staple crop typically refers to a food that is eaten routinely and accounts for a dominant part of people's diets in a particular region of the world).; The fruit is bitter and generally not edible.; The fruit is a dark green squash, rounded or nearly rounded, with mottling and distinct white stripes.; A few animals may eat the flesh while trying to get at the seeds.

Habitat & North American Range

Found in sandy alluvial soil of washes and valleys or on dry plains and mesas; 5,000 ft (1524 m). (Zone 8)