Cucurbita argyrosperma, commonly known as Cushaw Squash or Green-Striped Cushaw, is a fast-growing vine native to Mesoamerica, including Mexico and Central America, and has been introduced to the Southern United States. It is typically found in a variety of agricultural settings, including fields and gardens, where it has been cultivated for centuries. This plant can reach a height of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters) and spread out to 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters), with broad, lobed leaves and a sprawling habit. The Cushaw Squash produces large, bell-shaped yellow flowers in the summer, which are monoecious, meaning they have both male and female flowers on the same plant. The fruit is notable for its elongated shape, often with a curved neck and a bulbous end, and it has a green and white striped pattern.

The Cushaw Squash is valued for its edible fruit, which is used in a variety of culinary dishes, including pies, and is celebrated for its sweet, orange flesh. It is a popular choice for home gardens and is also grown commercially. In cultivation, it requires full sun and does well in a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, as long as they have medium to fast drainage. It is important to provide consistent moisture, especially during fruit development. While generally easy to grow, it can be susceptible to common squash pests and diseases, such as squash vine borers and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, practicing crop rotation and monitoring for pests are recommended.CC BY-SA 4.0