| Botanical name | LUFFA CYLINDRICA OR LUFFA AEGYPTIACA |
| No. of Seeds | 50 |
| 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 Â range of 6.0-7.0.(but prefer fertile and moist soil) |
| Germination time | 7-10 Days |
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.
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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