10 Types of Zucchini (with Pictures)

Zucchini is famous because of the unique flavor it brings to dishes. If you are a zucchini lover, then you probably already know that there are several varieties of zucchini. Due to the wide variety, there are always questions about this plant— which one has the best taste? Which one is the easiest to grow?

In this article, we have listed 10 types of zucchini, explaining some of their core features.

Overview of Zucchini

If you are looking to include more vegetables in your diet, then zucchini is a good place to start. Zucchini is a type of squash plant that is easy to grow, easy to cook, and comes packed with lots of health benefits.

The zucchini plant was first cultivated in the 19th century in Northern Italy. It was introduced to America by Italian Immigrants in the early 1920s. It thrives in temperate climates (between 65 and 70 degrees F is perfect). The immature fruit is the part that is actually harvested, although the mature fruit and the leaves are also edible.

The 10 Types of Zucchini

1. Black Beauty

You cannot mention zucchini without mentioning black beauty. It is one of the most popular types of zucchini you can find. It got its name from the color of its outer skin, which is dark green, almost black. A mature black beauty plant can grow anywhere from 12 to 24 inches, and the squash produces about 6 to 8 inches long fruits.

2. Round Zucchini

The round zucchini has the same taste as most other zucchini varieties. However, what makes it unique is the shape. They have pale yellow flesh and are oblong-shaped. Using the round zucchini can create very aesthetically pleasing dishes. They grow more in the form of bushes than as long trailing vines.

3. Cocozelle

Cocozelle is another popular type of zucchini. It has the same color, shape, and size as a cucumber, but when closely observed, you will see some dark green streaks on the body of the Cocozela. It is also dark like the black beauty, and some people find it more attractive than black beauty.

4. Gourmet Gold

The color of the gourmet gold zucchini is one of the features that make it stand out. If you have too many greens in your dish throw in a gourmet gold for an extra pop of golden-yellowish color.

5. Bianco Di Trieste Zucchini

The name of this zucchini is due to its color and its city of origin. Bianco is “white” in Italian, and Trieste is the Italian city where this particular vegetable is popular. This zucchini type has glossy smooth skin that is pale green. It usually does not grow very long, most times only reaching half the height of other zucchinis.

6. Gadzukes Zucchini

Gadzukes make a fine image when cut into thin slices and used to form a star shape. Homeowners love including this zucchini in their garden because it is easy to grow and begins to bear fruit after a short while. One unique thing about Gadzukes is that they always maintain their firm texture, even when harvested later than usual.

7. Magda Zucchini

Magda is said to have one of the best flavors of all squashes. It has a sweet, nutty flavor. The outer skin of Magda is pale green. It has a good texture for sauteing, so every chef always has this zucchini handy. It has a crisp, crunchy flavor that can be enjoyed when grilled. Since it is flavor-packed, experts advise that you harvest Magda in small quantities.

8. All Green Bush Zucchini

Just like the name implies, this zucchini is completely green in color. It also gets its name from the way it grows, which is in the form of a bush. When this zucchini is fully matured, it can grow up to 8 inches. However, most farmers harvest it before it is fully grown, as this is when it is the crunchiest. Chefs can take advantage of the crunchy outer skin to make a variety of tasty dishes.

9. Crookneck Squash

The crookneck zucchini is also called yellow squash, and it gets its distinctive name from its unique shape. It has a curvy neck that is prominent, and it is mainly yellow, with some splashes of green. Farmers prefer to harvest the crookneck squash before it is fully mature as they think it is best eaten at the tender stage before it is up to 6 inches.

10. Pattypan Zucchini

The pattypan zucchini has a unique saucer shape, and the edges are scalloped. The harvest of this plant is usually plentiful, and it grows in the form of a bush. It can be white, light green, or yellow. It can also be cooked in various ways.

Final Thoughts

If you have not already started indulging in these varieties of zucchini, then you really should try it out. You can purchase zucchinis from any vegetable store around you or cultivate them in your garden. There is a type for every preference, so you can choose the species that is most suitable for your needs. Zucchinis have a lot of health benefits, and they can come in handy in your kitchen.

Featured Image Credit: auntmasako, Pixabay