Fig-Leaf Squash(Cucurbita ficifolia) 

Also known as Chilacayote,  Malabar Gourd or 鱼翅瓜) is a vigorous, long-running vine with distinctive fig-shaped leaves. It’s grown for large, hard-rind fruits that store exceptionally well (throughout winter) and cook up beautifully in soups, stews, roasting, or sweet preserves. The tough, reliable vines are also prized as a hardy rootstock for grafting other cucurbits.

Plant in full sun. Start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before last frost, or direct sow after frost once soil is warm. Give plenty of space—vines can sprawl widely. Trellising is possible for cleaner fruit, but requires very strong support. Harvest when the rind is fully hard and stems begin to dry; cure, then store in a cool, dry place.  Chigarden 2026