Are Pumpkins Considered to Be a Fruit or a Vegetable?

By Staff WriterLast Updated December 11, 2023

Pumpkins are considered to be a fruit. Botanists consider fruits to be the portion of a plant that forms from a flower and also the part of a plant that contains seeds. Stems, leaves, roots and even flower buds are considered to be vegetables.

Avocados, beans, pea pods, corn kernels, cucumbers, grains, nuts, peppers, squash and tomatoes are also considered fruits as opposed to vegetables. Celery, lettuce, cauliflower, broccoli, beets, carrots and potatoes are referred to as vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are highly similar in terms of nutrition. They both contain antioxidants and are packed with vitamins and minerals. A serving of fruit has a slightly higher caloric value than a serving of vegetables.