Cucurbita pepo; ornamental gourd; field pumpkin
Refers to the species Cucurbita pepo, which includes many varieties of pumpkin, squash, and zucchini. In everyday Japanese, it often points to small, decorative pumpkins or gourds used as toys or ornaments, hence the name 'toy pumpkin'.
See also: ペポかぼちゃ
In autumn, many households decorate with ornamental gourds.
This Cucurbita pepo is not for eating; it's for decoration.
ペポカボチャ is a more scientific term for Cucurbita pepo, while おもちゃかぼちゃ is the common name emphasizing its ornamental use.
かぼちゃ is the general word for pumpkin/squash, often referring to edible varieties. おもちゃかぼちゃ specifically denotes the ornamental or toy-like types.
Katakana spelling, sometimes used for emphasis or in botanical contexts.
Kanji spelling using 玩具 (toy) and 南瓜 (pumpkin). Rarely used; the kana form is strongly preferred.
Mixed kanji-kana spelling. Uncommon.
Mixed kanji-katakana spelling. Uncommon.
Mixed katakana-kanji spelling. Uncommon.
Mixed hiragana-kanji spelling. Uncommon.
From おもちゃ (toy) + かぼちゃ (pumpkin), literally 'toy pumpkin'. The name reflects its common use as a decorative or play object rather than for food.