| Botanical name | LUFFA CYLINDRICA OR LUFFA AEGYPTIACA |
| Germination time | 7-10 |
| Plant height | 10-15 feet |
| Harvesting time | 60-90 days after sowing (when the gourds are mature and the skin is hard). |
| Sunlight | Full sun(requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day). |
| Season | Spring and Summer |
| Plant type | Annual, Climbing vine. |
| Climate | Requiring a warm and humid climate |
| Temperature | Optimal temperature for growth 18-35°C |
| Soil | Well-draining, rich soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0.(but prefer fertile and moist soil) |
| No. of seeds | 50 |
The sponge gourd, also known as Luffa or Loofah, is a type of vegetable that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. The gourd can grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) in length and 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in diameter.
Texture
The exterior of the sponge gourd is rough and fibrous, while the interior is soft, spongy, and slightly crunchy.
Taste
The taste of sponge gourd is mild, slightly sweet, and neutral, making it a versatile ingredient in various dishes.
Uses
Sponge gourd is used in various cuisines, particularly in Asian and Mediterranean cooking. It can be:
- Eaten raw: Sliced or diced and added to salads, sandwiches, or used as a garnish.
- Cooked: Stir-fried, sautéed, or boiled and used in soups, stews, or curries.
- Used as a sponge: When mature, the gourd can be dried and used as a natural exfoliating sponge.
Nutritional Value
Sponge gourd is low in calories and rich in:
- Fiber
- Vitamin C
- Potassium
- Antioxidants
Interesting Fact
Sponge gourd is also known for its medicinal properties, particularly in traditional Chinese medicine, where it’s used to treat various ailments, including fever, cough, and digestive issues.
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