Luffa Sponge Gourd (Luffa cylindrica)

Luffa Sponge Gourd (Luffa cylindrica) is a tropical and subtropical vine plant belonging to the cucumber family, Cucurbitaceae. It is grown for its fibrous, sponge-like fruit, which is commonly used as a natural exfoliant and sponge in personal hygiene and household cleaning. 

The plant has long, slender vines that can reach up to 30 feet (9 meters) in length and climb or sprawl over trellises, fences, or other structures. The leaves are large, lobed, and rough-textured, and the flowers are yellow and trumpet-shaped. The fruit of the Luffa Sponge Gourd is cylindrical, elongated, and varies in length from 6 to 20 inches (15 to 50 centimeters). When mature, the fruit turns brown and dries out, revealing a fibrous network of strands that can be peeled off to expose the sponge-like interior. 

The Luffa Sponge Gourd is native to South Asia but is now widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It is a hardy and fast-growing plant that requires warm temperatures, plenty of sunlight, and regular watering. The fruit can be harvested when it is still young and tender for use as a vegetable in soups and stews, or left to mature for use as a sponge. 

The Luffa Sponge Gourd has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its purported anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and diuretic properties. In addition, its fibrous network has been used for a variety of purposes, such as insulation, stuffing, and even as a musical instrument. Today, it remains a popular natural alternative to synthetic sponges and scrubs in personal care and cleaning products.

This is THE Luffa grown for its sponges. The sponge gourd (luffa fruit) is high in antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, nutrients, and lipids. Dishcloth or Luffa Gourd Fruits Grow to Approx. 2'