The Many Types of Pumpkins You Need to Know

When we think of pumpkins, we often picture bright orange gourds that are carved into jack-o'-lanterns or made into pies during Thanksgiving. But did you know that there are actually many different types of pumpkins? From their unique colors and shapes to their varying uses in the kitchen, each type of pumpkin has its own distinct characteristics. Here are some of the most popular types of pumpkins you need to know.

1. Jack-Be-Little

If you're looking for a cute and small pumpkin, the Jack-Be-Little is perfect for you! These tiny pumpkins are about the size of a baseball and have bright orange skin. They're often used for decoration, but they can also be roasted and eaten.

A pile of Jack-Be-Little pumpkins

2. Lumina

The Lumina pumpkin is known for its ghostly white skin. This variety of pumpkin is great for decorating during Halloween, especially when paired with other colorful pumpkins. In terms of taste, Lumina pumpkins are sweet and have a smooth texture.

A close-up of a Lumina pumpkin

3. Cinderella

The Cinderella pumpkin is named after the fairy tale character's pumpkin carriage. It has a flattened shape and a deep orange color. Cinderella pumpkins are great for making soups and stews because they have a creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor.

A Cinderella pumpkin on a wooden table

4. Sugar Pie

The Sugar Pie pumpkin is the classic variety used for making pies during Thanksgiving. It has a round shape and a dark orange skin. The flesh is sweet and tender, making it perfect for baking. If you want to make your own pumpkin puree for pie filling, the Sugar Pie pumpkin is the way to go.

A Sugar Pie pumpkin on a white background

5. Knucklehead

The Knucklehead pumpkin gets its name from its unusual shape, which looks like a bunch of knobby fingers. Its skin is a deep green color with orange stripes. While the Knucklehead is often used for decoration, it can also be roasted and eaten. Its sweet and nutty flavor makes it a great addition to any meal.

A group of Knucklehead pumpkins on a table

6. Fairytale

The Fairytale pumpkin is another variety that's great for making soups and stews. It has a unique shape that's similar to the Cinderella pumpkin, but with deeper ribbing. The skin is a vibrant tan color, and the flesh is sweet and meaty.

A Fairytale pumpkin on a wooden floor

7. Blue Hubbard

The Blue Hubbard pumpkin is one of the largest varieties of pumpkins, often weighing up to 40 pounds. It has a thick, bumpy skin that's a bluish-gray color. While it's not as commonly used for cooking as other varieties, it can be roasted or baked. Its bright orange flesh is rich and flavorful.

A Blue Hubbard pumpkin on a farm

8. Baby Boo

If you're looking for a pumpkin that's more decorative than edible, the Baby Boo is perfect for you. These tiny white pumpkins are about the size of an apple and have a cute, round shape. They're often used for table decorations or in fall-themed centerpieces.

A group of Baby Boo pumpkins

Whether you're looking for a pumpkin to decorate your front porch or to use in your next recipe, there's a type of pumpkin out there for everyone. From the tiny Jack-Be-Little to the massive Blue Hubbard, each variety offers its own unique qualities. Experiment with different types of pumpkins to find your new favorite!