Seeds
Black Futsu Squash Seeds, Rare Japanese Heirloom
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Black Futsu Squash Seeds, a rare Japanese heirloom (Cucurbita moschata
The moschata group is the one that matters in a Kansas July. Solid, dense stems that vine borer larvae struggle to tunnel, and genuine tolerance for heat and humidity. Why species predicts survival here.) with dense, sweet, nutty flesh and natural vine borer resistance. Available in treated or untreated, select above. Grown and tested at our Kansas homestead.
🛡️ Vine borer resistance: Excellent, the solid stems of Cucurbita moschata resist the squash vine borer that kills most common pumpkins.
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✅ Germination Promise: if your seeds fail to germinate under proper growing conditions, contact us within one year and we will replace them or refund your purchase. See the details.
📖 Read our complete growing guide for this variety →
A prized Japanese heirloom with a dark, warty rind that ripens from near-black to rich bronze-tan. Dense, sweet, nutty orange flesh with a dry texture perfect for roasting and soups.
Treated: Film-coated with a fungicide for improved germination and early-season vigor, ideal for wet spring conditions or gardeners who want maximum germination rates.
Untreated: Natural, uncoated seeds, the right choice for gardeners who prefer no fungicide treatment or who want to save seeds for replanting.
Growing Guide
Cucurbita moschata
Annual
100 days
Full sun
36-48" apart
1"
Vine
3-5 lbs
Dark green, matures to bronze
Roasting, soup, baking
No
Yes, 3 weeks before last frost
No
2-3 weeks in a warm, dry spot
4 to 6 months, well cured
Flavor intensifies significantly with storage time
Select above
Note (Treated option only): Treated seeds contain fungicide coating. Do not eat. Not for use in certified programs.
History & Origin
Black Futsu has been grown in Japan for centuries, treasured for its nutty, chestnut-like flavor and striking appearance. The flattened, deeply ribbed fruits are small enough for single-serving meals yet pack serious culinary intensity. Seed companies across North America prize it as one of the most flavorful winter squash in any collection.
In the Kitchen
Halve and roast at high heat to bring out its natural sugars, the skin crisps and becomes edible when roasted well. Excellent in miso soup, pureed into savory squash custard, or stuffed and baked. The dry flesh makes an exceptionally rich soup base without becoming watery.
Related Reading
Quick Specs
| Species | Cucurbita moschata |
| Days to maturity | 100 to 105 |
| Sowing | 1 in deep, hills 4 to 6 ft apart |
| Sun | Full sun |
| Vine habit | Vines 10 to 15 ft |
| Fruit size | 3 to 5 lb |
| Pest resistance | Highly vine borer resistant. Solid moschata stems are hard for borer larvae to tunnel into. Resistant, not immune, so still scout in June and July. |
Common Questions
Is Black Futsu Squash really vine borer resistant?
Highly vine borer resistant. Solid moschata stems are hard for borer larvae to tunnel into. Resistant, not immune, so still scout in June and July.
When should I plant Black Futsu Squash in Kansas?
Direct sow or transplant once soil holds 65 to 70 F, typically mid May to early June in Zone 6b. At 100 to 105 days to maturity, a late May planting ripens in September to October, right on time for curing before frost.
What does Black Futsu taste like?
Nutty and sweet, often compared to chestnut. The black-green skin ripens to a dusty tan in storage and the fruit are small enough for one meal, which makes it a favorite for small kitchens.
Will it ripen before frost? Black Futsu Squash needs about 100 days from sowing. In a typical Newton, Kansas Zone 6b season the first fall frost arrives between October 10 and 20, so direct sow by about June 23 to finish with a two week cushion. Planting later, or gardening in a different zone? Check your own planting window.
Shipping & Satisfaction
We ship seeds and coffee via USPS from Newton, Kansas. Orders typically ship within 1 to 3 business days.
Seeds: Flat-rate shipping. Ships year-round.
Coffee: Packed fresh in Newton and shipped weekly.
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Growing Tips
Each seed packet includes detailed growing instructions. For additional help, visit our Growing Guides or reach out to us directly.
Seed life: 4 to 6 years stored cool, dry and dark. Germination is strongest in the first 2 to 3 years, so sow the freshest packet first and test older seed before you plan a bed around it.
Complete your patch
Most growers plant three or four varieties. Free shipping on orders over $25.00.
