Marshalls Seeds has begun selling seeds and plants of an albino pumpkin variety in a bid to establish an American favourite in the UK.
The Pumpkin Polar Bear variety, which has been popular in the US for several years, produces large white pumpkins that remain white with age, weigh up to 25kg and have yellow-orange flesh.
The little-known variety hit British supermarket shelves in time for Halloween last year, with Morrisons selling the spooky fruit for £3 each – the first time a UK retailer has made them widely available.
And Marshalls will be hoping to boost production of the variety, as it makes seeds and plants available to growers, ready for next year’s harvest.
The niche variety is best grown in raised beds or large containers, with plenty of rich, loamy soil.
Anna Betts, Marshall Seeds’ brand manager, said: “This is an excellent variety to raise from seed or young plants, especially with all the family. Children love to watch the fruits develop, ready for carving at Halloween. The white skin and orange flesh means they give a really good glow with a candle inside!
She added: “The flesh is also perfect in the kitchen for pulping for soups and smoothies and cutting into chunks for roasting.”
