Pair of Kamo Kamo Summer Squash on a white background.
Kamo Kamo Summer Squash with slices and cubes and coin on dark background.
Whole and cut Kamo Kamo Summer Squash on a dark brown background.
Hands holding a single Kamo Kamo Summer Squash in the winter squash stage of maturity.
A stack of Kamo Kamo Squash at the winter squash stage of maturity on wood against a blue background.
Pair of Kamo Kamo Summer Squash on a white background.
Kamo Kamo Summer Squash with slices and cubes and coin on dark background.
Whole and cut Kamo Kamo Summer Squash on a dark brown background.
Hands holding a single Kamo Kamo Summer Squash in the winter squash stage of maturity.
A stack of Kamo Kamo Squash at the winter squash stage of maturity on wood against a blue background.

Summer Squash Seeds,
Kamo Kamo

3.920 ReviewsSKU: #SSQ129
Price
Regular price $4.50
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $4.50
Save $-4.50
/

Min. 20 seeds

FREE U.S. SHIPPING2-YEAR GUARANTEE

Description

(Cucurbita pepo). The delicious heirloom squash of the Maori people of New Zealand; it is also known as Kumi Kumi pumpkin. New Zealanders say this is the best of all squash, for the young fruit can be boiled, fried, or baked, and has a rich, nutty flavor. Let the green speckled squash ripen, and it is good as a winter squash. It has become rare even in New Zealand. Very ornamental.

Growing Tips: Kamo Kamo, a traditional Māori squash from New Zealand, is a dual-purpose variety harvested young as a summer squash or mature for roasting and storage. It grows vigorously on sprawling vines and thrives in rich, well-drained soil with full sun. Mulch to suppress weeds and conserve moisture, and train vines if space is limited.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Cucurbita pepo
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Vining
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–10
Days to Maturity
65–75
Planting Depth
1 in.
Plant Spacing
24–36 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Sow Kamo Kamo seeds outdoors after the last frost when soil temperatures reach 70°F or higher. In cooler regions, start seeds indoors 2–4 weeks before the last frost and transplant when soil has warmed. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1 inch deep directly into well-drained, fertile soil once all danger of frost has passed. Space plants 36 to 60 inches apart to accommodate vigorous vines. For earlier harvests, transplant indoor-started seedlings after hardening off. Don’t let them become rootbound; don't disturb roots while transplanting. Ensure consistent moisture during germination and early establishment for strong, healthy growth.

How to Grow

Kamo Kamo prefers full sun and consistent watering at the base of the plant. Support vines on trellises or let them sprawl if space allows. Feed with compost or organic fertilizer every few weeks. Harvest young for tender summer squash or leave on the vine until mature with hardened skin for winter use and storage.

How to Save Seeds

Note that there are four different species of squash: Cucurbita maxima, C. pepo, C. moschata, and C. mixta. They will not cross pollinate with each other, so it is possible to grow one of each species for seed saving without worrying about cross pollination. If you are planning to save seeds from several varieties of the same species, you can bag the blossoms and hand pollinate to avoid crossing.

  • Allow squash to mature fully on the vine until the skin is tough and deeply colored.
  • Cure the squash for 2–3 weeks in a dry, warm space to finish seed development.
  • Cut open the fruit and scoop out seeds.
  • Rinse seeds thoroughly to remove pulp and residue.
  • Spread seeds out to dry completely for 2–3 weeks in a well-ventilated area.
  • Store in a cool, dry, labeled container for future planting.

FAQ

Is Kamo Kamo squash used as a summer or winter squash?

Kamo Kamo is unique in that it can be harvested young like a zucchini or allowed to mature for use as a winter squash. Its versatility makes it valuable in the kitchen.

Can I grow Kamo Kamo in a small space or container?

Because Kamo Kamo has a vigorous vining habit, it’s best suited to larger gardens or vertical growing setups. A strong trellis and large container (15+ gallons) are required for success in tight spaces.

How should I cook mature Kamo Kamo squash?

When fully mature, Kamo Kamo squash has firm, flavorful flesh perfect for baking, stuffing, or roasting. Its nutty taste pairs well with savory herbs, making it excellent for hearty dishes and soups.

Browse our full range of summer squash seeds.

Customer reviews

3.9 / 5 20 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Rampant vines: Not a bush type; vines run 10 to 20 feet and climb anything.

  • Shrugs off trouble: Keeps going through squash bugs, mildew and heat.

  • Summer or winter squash: Pick young like a zucchini, or let it cure and store till spring.

  • Tasty either way: Mild when young; nutty, not sweet, and butternut-like mature.

  • Heads up: A few vines grew only male flowers; the cured rind is very hard.

More to grow!
See all Squash Seeds