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Luffa aegyptiaca

Also Known As

Loofah
Luffa
Smooth Loofah
Sponge Gourd
Vegetable Sponge

Plant type

annual / biennial, fruit / vegetable

size

H: 30'
W: 5'

planting zones

7a-11

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Luffa aegyptiaca plant details

Luffa aegyptiaca is a broadleaf deciduous annual / biennial fruit / vegetable with green foliage. In spring and summer yellow flowers emerge followed by green fruit. Attracts bees making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun and regular water. Does well in rich and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Luffa aegyptiaca

Plant type: annual / biennial fruit / vegetable
Plant family: cucurbitaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 5 FT wide, 30 FT tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in spring and summer
Uses: edible, trellis

GROWING CONDITIONS for Luffa aegyptiaca

USDA Zones: 7a - 11
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: regular

Soil needs: rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

A vegetable with which you may do the dishes, exfoliate your toes, or (according to Wikipedia) treat jaundice! Bring this cucumber relative home to your vegetable garden for the sheer fun of it! Best in exceptionally warm areas, but if you get 4 months warm weather you stand a good chance of getting a decent crop. If picked young, Luffa can be cooked & eaten like zucchini, but if you want a sponge, you should wait until the (2’ or more long!) fruits are completely dry on the vine before harvesting. The skin should peel easily from the spongy innards. Plant in rich, well drained soil. Space plants 5-6’ apart. You Luffa would like (but doesn’t absolutely need) a supportive trellis or fence. 110-140 days.