- Botanical Name & Family: Cucurbita pepo, Cucurbitaceae (gourd family) .
- Plant Description: Annual vine. Diverse species including crookneck, straightneck, scallop, zucchini. Chappan Kaddu is round, small, with neutral flavor. Bushy texture, smaller internodes. Prickly, conspicuously-lobed leaves. Yellow flowers. Fruits are tender, various sizes/shapes, often striped. Seeds integrated within flesh.
- Cultivation Tips: Warm-season vegetable, tolerates lower temperatures (ideal 24-27 °C). Thrives in full sun (6-8 hours). Prefers loam or well-draining sandy loam (pH 6-7.5). Sow seeds Feb-March or Oct-Jan (frost-free). Direct sow 2.5 cm deep, 2-3 seeds per hill. Requires regular watering. Fertilize before planting, then side-dress. Harvest within 50-80 days when tender and glossy.
Ayurvedic Description: Healthy ingredient, can be added daily. Neutralizes and cools stomach acids, useful for dyspepsia, hyperacidity, ulcers. Traditionally used for diabetes. High fiber promotes bowel movements, protects against colon cancer. High Vitamin C and beta-carotene for eye health and immunity. Low sodium, high potassium benefits heart health. Gluten-free.
Nutritional profile of seasonal vegetable (per 100g raw edible portion):
| Vegetable | Botanical Name | Calories (kcal) | Carbohydrates (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Fiber (g) | Key Vitamins | Key Minerals |
| Chappan Kaddu (Summer Squash) | Cucurbita pepo | 17 / 31 | – / 7 | – / 2 | – / 0 | – / 2 | C (37 mg), Folate, A | K (11 mg), Fe, Ca, P, Mn, Na |