Buttercup squash (Kabocha) - history

It is understood the Japanese fascination with Kabocha began when an early Portuguese trade vessel presented Kabocha as a gift to Japanese nobility in 1549. It is believed the name Kabocha was a direct link to the country it came from - Kampuchea, maybe a little like the fruit New Zealand is best known for - the kiwi. The health attributes, taste and appealing colour contrasts of the flesh and skin have made Kabocha a staple of the Japanese diet.

In the late 70’s, New Zealand was recognised as the perfect location to grow this product during the Japanese off-season. LeaderBrand quickly grew to meet this market opportunity, with LeaderBrand emerging as the largest grower/packer/shipper in the world.

Kabocha growing areas around the world include: