Seed Availability

Seeds are now available at our seed store.

Description

Very fast growing vine to 10-15ft. Vines may be ground dwelling, but grow best when give upward support. If growing for sponges, allow the fruits to turn from green to yellow on the vine. Fruits will lose quite a bit of moisture and become light. Harvest, pull of thin outer skin and remove seeds. The fibrous core should then be bleached and dried before using.

Hardiness

They are frost tender, but can be grown as summer annuals.

Growing Environment

Care is similar to other gourds and melons. Water frequently, grow in full sun.

Propagation

By seeds.

Uses

Grown both for its edible fruits and as a source of sponges.

Native Range

Native to South America.

Related Species

Cucurbitaceae
	Cucumis metuliferus Horned Melon		Cucumis zeyheri South African Spiny Cucumber
	Cucurbita ficifolia Malabar Gourd		Cucurbita pepo Spaghetti Squash
	Cyclanthera explodens Exploding Cucumber		Kedrostis leloja Kedrostis leloja
	Luffa cylindrica Luffa		Sicana odorifera Cassabanana