Loofa / Luffa Sponge Gourd Seeds - Annual Climbing Vine
Luffa aegyptica / Luffa cylindrica
 
*  Common Names = Luffa / Sponge Gourd / Loofah / Si Gua / Bath Sponge Gourd
*  Dried fruits are used as an abrasive sponge for exfoliating skin
*  Young gourds are used in salads & soups
*  Shoots, leaves and seeds are cooked in stir-fry culinary dishes
*  Used in home remedies as an astringent, for pain, and to improve circulation
*  Produces about 6-12 fruits per vine - each fruit measuring 12-24 inches
*  Grow on a trellis, wall or arbor (like cucumbers)
 
Life Cycle:  Annual Climber
Vine Length:  35-45 feet
USDA Zone:  5-11
Light:  Full Sun / Partial Sun
Harvest:  120-150 days

GROWING RECOMMENDATIONS:
1.  Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours. Sow seeds 1/2" deep in small pots/flats with moistened seed-starting mix. Spritz with water to settle into soil.
2.  Place in warm indirect sunlight and keep soil moist. Germination will occur in 7-14 days. 
3.  Resize into bigger pots as needed. Transplant 4” tall seedlings 24” apart after last frost.
 
*** Luffa plants are sensitive to cold. Harvest gourds immediately after first frost.