Luffa Gourd

Luffa Gourd lets you grow your own natural loofah sponge, with abundant yields perfect for soap crafts and bath sponges. Young green gourds under 4.5 inches are also edible, while mature fruits cure into a fibrous sponge.

At a glance

• Type: Luffa gourd (vining)
• Use: Natural sponge and edible young fruit
• Edible stage: Green and under 4.5 inches
• Curing time: 3 to 6 months in a dry, airy spot
• Yield: Prolific
• Sun: Full sun, long warm season
• Non-GMO: Open-pollinated heirloom

Best for

• Homemade bath and dish sponges
• Natural soap crafts
• Eating young like summer squash
• Trellises and vertical gardens
• Self-sufficiency projects

How to grow

Start seeds indoors early and transplant into full sun after the last frost, since luffa needs a long, warm season. Grow on a sturdy trellis to keep the gourds straight. Leave sponge gourds on the vine until the skin dries and browns, then peel, rinse out the seeds, and finish curing.

Flavor profile

Harvested young, the green gourd is mild and tender like zucchini.

About MIgardener

MIgardener is a Michigan-based seed company offering affordable, non-GMO heirloom seeds for home gardeners.