About National Pumpkin Day
The true star of the fall season is undeniable. They’re everywhere: in our coffee, in our pies, on our front door step and sometimes in our savory dishes. We’re talking about pumpkins, of course! But did you know that pumpkins are in fact not a vegetable, but a fruit? Or that they are one of the best sources of beta-carotene and are loaded with fiber, potassium and vitamin C? Whether you’re eating them or simply admiring the look of them, there’s a lot to love about these plump, orange beauties.
Native to North America, pumpkins are one of the oldest domesticated plants, having been used as early as 7,500 BC. They are one of the most popular crops in America.
A French explorer in 1584 first called them "gros melons," which was translated into English as "pompions," according to History. It wasn't until the 17th century that they were first referred to as pumpkins.
Fun Pumpkin Facts
- Did you know? A pumpkin is a berry.
- Did you know? Pumpkins are grown on every continent except Antarctica.
- Did you know? 80% of the U.S.'s pumpkin crop is harvested during October.
- Did you know? Each pumpkin has about 500 seeds.
- Did you know? Every single part of a pumpkin is edible. You can eat the skin, leaves, flowers, pulp, seeds, and even the stem!
- Did you know? Pumpkins are 90% water, which makes them a low-calorie food.
- Did you know? There are 45 varieties of Pumpkin. The traditional American pumpkin used for jack-o-lanterns is the Connecticut field variety.
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