Luffa - Sponge (10 seeds)

Luffa Sponge

Luffa 'Sponge' is a vigorous annual climber grown for its long gourds that, when fully mature and dried, form natural sponges ideal for bathing, cleaning, and crafts. A genuinely dual-purpose crop, the fruit can also be harvested young and eaten like zucchini with a mild, tender flavour, making it as useful in the kitchen as it is around the home. A rewarding and unusual addition to the warm-season garden that attracts plenty of interest from visitors.

Thriving in full sun, fertile soil, and warm conditions, Luffa produces heavy, vigorous vines that require a strong trellis or fence for support. It performs best in the warmest regions of New Zealand where long, hot summers allow the gourds sufficient time to fully mature and dry on the vine.

Planting Season: Spring, Summer
Sow: Direct after frost, 1–2 cm deep
Spacing: 60 cm apart with strong trellis support
Height: Climbing vine to 3–4 m with support
Germination: 7–14 days at 20–25°C
Harvest: 100–120 days; pick young for eating or leave to dry fully for sponges
Flavour: Mild and tender when harvested young

10 seeds