09/01/2026
Plant Trivia #1
"KALABASA or KARABASA" - SQUASH/PUMPKIN
KALABASA It may look like a vegetable, but kalabasa is actually a fruit with a story that spans thousands of years. Long before it became a staple in Filipino kitchens, kalabasa was first grown in the Americas more than 7,000 years ago. Early civilizations valued it for its sweet flesh, edible seeds, and long shelf life. When Spanish explorers traveled to Asia, they brought this versatile fruit with them, and it quickly found a place in the Philippines. The name kalabasa comes from the Spanish word calabaza, a reminder of its journey across continents. In Filipino homes, kalabasa shines in dishes like ginataang kalabasa, while its tender flowers are cooked in soups and fritters. Even the seeds are a nostalgic snack for many, roasted and shared like a comforting treat from childhood. Did you know? Kalabasa is a fruit because it grows from the flower of the plant and contains seeds inside. Vegetables usually come from leaves, stems, or roots, which is why cooking it as a vegetable does not change its true nature. Pumpkin, squash, and kalabasa all belong to the same plant family but differ by variety and region. Packed with vitamins A and C, this humble fruit nourishes our bodies and our hearts. It carries the flavors and memories of home, reminding us of family meals and simple, joyful moments from the past.
