Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a type of winter squash that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes gourds and melons. It’s typically round with smooth, slightly ribbed skin, and is often deep yellow to orange in color. The thick shell contains the seeds and pulp.

The scent profile of pumpkin is usually associated with the warm, comforting aromas of autumn. Fresh pumpkin itself has a mild, sweet scent with earthy and slightly nutty undertones. However, when most people think of the pumpkin scent, they're often imagining the combination of it with classic spice mixtures, known as pumpkin spice, which includes cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and allspice. This blend creates a rich, inviting fragrance that evokes coziness and seasonal nostalgia.

When cooked, pumpkin releases a soft, slightly sweet aroma that complements both savory and sweet dishes well, which makes it versatile in culinary uses. In various products like candles, perfumes, and air fresheners, the 'pumpkin' scent is usually this sweet-spicy combination, rather than the scent of pumpkin alone. Overall, pumpkin's scent is as much a herald of the fall season as its taste.