C. pepo apparently originated in Mexico and Central America. Cultivation there started about 5,000 years ago. They were important food plants of the native Americans, with the flowers and the mature seeds, as well as the flesh of the fruit eaten in some areas. Before the advent of the white man, C. pepo had been carried over all parts of North America where they could be grown, but they had not been carried into South America as had beans, which originated in the same general region. They were generally grown by Indian tribes all over what is now the United States.

The courgette, as we know it, was developed by the Italians, from seeds first brought to Europe from the Americas during Christopher Columbus' crusades. It was later adopted by French chefs who called it a courgette. As with the aubergine, the courgette was brought to the attention of Britons in the mid-twentieth century thanks to the writings of Elizabeth David.

Sow 2 seeds in a 7cm pot and keep in a warm place, preferably a propagator. When the seeds have germinated put in a bright place but keep pretty warm, for instance a south facing window sill. Dig small holes about 60cm apart where the plants will finally be planted out and fill them with well rotted FYM, about half a bucket per plant. Then I cover the FYM with soil and ground cover. I plant the plant through the ground cover, when it grows out of its pot, and water well. Plant out in a green house or poytunnel in March to have fruit by the end of May. Plants should not be put out of doors until May and protected from frost and slugs.

Courgettes have both male and female flowers. The female flowers have a tiny fruit at the base. Early in the year it may help to try and pollinate the flowers. If they are not pollinated the courgette will turn yellow at the tip and fall off. Cold nights may also prevent fruit setting. After a while they usually manage to set fruit whether you hand pollinate or not. Break off a male flower and rub the stamen on the stigma of the female flower so that it picks up some pollen.

Pick fruit while small for the best flavour. The flowers can be eaten too, battered and fried.