Sponge gourd / Egyptian cucumber / Vietnamese luffa

Luffa aegyptiaca/cylindrica

Plant family

Curcurbits (Cucurbitaceae)

Season Overview

Propagating

Planting

Harvest

J

F

M

A

M

J

A

S

O

N

D

Details

Light requirement

Sunny

Water requirement

Wet

Soil

Medium (loamy)

Nutrient requirement

High

Seeding distance

50 cm

Row spacing

60 cm

Seeding depth

2 cm

Instructions

Description

The sponge cucumber, loofah or sponge gourd belongs to the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae). It is grown for its sponges, but even the unripe fruits are edible and resemble zucchini in appearance and taste. The flowers are also edible.

Origin:

Africa, Asia and the tropical Americas

Growing tips

At germination keep evenly moist but not wet at a temperature between 20-25°C. Germination occurs after about 10-20 days. Harvest as a sponge cucumber as soon as the fruit skin begins to dry up (brown skin). Peel and dry immediately after harvest (until the seeds fall out). Wash sponge well under running water. Sponges can be used as a household or massage sponge. Cultivation also possible in sunny, warm open ground, best protected location or greenhouse. Needs a climbing frame.