Smooth Luffa Luffa aegyptiaca

Sponge gourd is an annual climbing vine in the cucumber family. Despite its common use as a bath sponge (typically called luffa or loofah), it is a vegetable bearing yellow flowers that mature to fruits that are edible when young (typically less than 7 inches long and green) and can be eaten as squash or fresh cucumber substitute. As the fruit matures, it becomes fibrous and inedible, but ideal for use as a loofah, or scrubbing sponge.  As common as loofahs are, most people don’t realize that they are made from a plant, and although a native of Southeast Asia, the plant can be grown right here in North Carolina. The species name means "from Egypt", in reference to part of the cultivated range of this species.

To thrive in the garden, sponge gourds need at least 6 hours of full sun, well-drained, evenly moist, rich loam, good air circulation, and a sturdy trellis to climb. It will tolerate nutritionally poor soil. Keep in mind that the vines can grow to 30 to 50 feet long. If the sponge gourds are to be used as loofahs, harvest immediately after the first frost in the fall when the gourds are tan, light and dry, and the seeds shake inside when rattled. 

Sponge gourd requires a frost-free growing season of at least four months and warm temperatures for proper flowering and fruiting. In zones that meet those requirements, sow seeds directly in the garden after the threat of frost. In cooler zones, start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date after soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours. Use biodegradable pots to reduce transplant shock.

To make your own loofah bath sponge, soak the fruit in warm water for 5 to 20 minutes until the skin can be easily stripped off. When the skin is off, remove the seeds and excess pulp and rinse in a 10% chlorine bleach solution to lighten the sponge.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

Powdery mildew, downy mildew, and various leaf spot diseases are possible. Cucumber beetles, squash bugs, thrips, aphids, and spider mites can be problematic.