A pumpkin is botanically classified as a fruit, specifically a type of berry called a pepo. The structure that connects this large fruit to the vine is frequently called the “top” or “handle,” leading to uncertainty about its precise name and function. Understanding the correct terminology for this attachment point helps clarify the pumpkin’s anatomy and how it grows.
The Primary Terminology
The ridged, woody structure at the top of the pumpkin is most accurately called the peduncle. This term refers to the stalk that directly links the resulting fruit to the main stem of the plant. While peduncle is the formal botanical name, most people simply refer to this part as the “stem” or “handle.”
A high-quality, intact stem is often seen as a mark of a healthy pumpkin, indicating that it was harvested correctly. This part is typically hard and woody, which is characteristic of fruit stems within the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae).
Biological Structure and Function
The peduncle’s primary purpose is to act as a transport system between the vine and the developing fruit. It contains specialized vascular tissues, namely the xylem and the phloem, which are bundled together. The xylem is responsible for moving water and dissolved minerals from the roots up to the fruit.
The phloem is the tissue that translocates sugars (the products of photosynthesis) from the leaves (the plant’s energy “sources”) to the fruit (the energy “sink”). This continuous movement of nutrients allows the pumpkin to grow to its mature size and store energy for the seeds inside. The peduncle end is where the fruit was attached, while the opposite, smoother end of the pumpkin is known as the blossom end.
Practical Handling and Preparation
When pumpkins are used for decoration, the stem serves a practical function, often acting as a natural handle for maneuvering the heavy fruit. It is also the focal point when preparing a jack-o’-lantern, as the most common method of opening the pumpkin involves cutting a circular lid around the base of the stem. Cutting this lid at a slight angle helps prevent it from falling into the hollowed-out pumpkin later.
In culinary applications, the peduncle is generally discarded because of its tough, fibrous, and woody texture. For cooking, the stem is usually removed to access the flesh and seeds. Keeping the stem intact on decorative pumpkins is thought to help the fruit maintain its freshness longer before carving.