Loofah - Luffa aegyptiaca (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images, Edible)

Loofah

Also known as: Vegetable sponge, Egyptian cucumber, Dishrag gourd, Smooth luffa

Loofah (*Luffa aegyptiaca*) is a plant species native to South and Southeast Asia. Loofah is often grown as an ornamental species. The fruit of this species is approximately 30 cm long and resembles a cucumber in shape and size.

Scientific classification

Species

Loofah (Luffa aegyptiaca)

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Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb, Vine

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

1.8 m to 9 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

Green, Yellow

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Loofah

Distribution of Loofah

Distribution Map

Loofah is native to major regions of Africa and South Asia, with its presence well-established from the western coasts of Africa, stretching eastward to South Asia. This species has been introduced and is now found in areas across the Americas, East Asia, Oceania, and parts of the Middle East and Southeast Europe. It is also cultivated in various regions outside its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Gardens, fields, trash heaps

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Quickly Identify Loofah

Tendrils aiding climbing on structures

Dark green, palmate leaves with lobes

Vibrant deep-yellow unisexual flowers

Subcylindrical fruit, 12-24 inches long

Five-angled stem with tendrils, up to 50 feet long

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Care Guide for Loofah

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Loofah thrives in warm, humid conditions and prefers consistent moisture, requiring watering twice a week. While it withstands short dryness, regular hydration during the growing season is crucial for robust growth and fruit yield, reflecting its tropical origins.

Fertilize: Loofah requires fertilization for optimal growth and yield. Use high phosphorus fertilizers for flowering and balanced formulas for health, applying every 2-4 weeks during growth, less in dormancy. Dilute to avoid root burn and adjust based on seasonal needs for best results.

Pruning: Loofah, recognized for its fibrous fruit, thrives with proper pruning techniques. Key practices involve removing weak stems and thinning crowded regions for better air flow. Prune in early to late spring to enhance light exposure, flowering, and fruit health while reducing disease risks.

Propagation: Native to tropical regions, loofah is a vigorous vine known for its fruit, which serves as a natural scrubber. Use fresh seeds for propagation, soaking them for 24 hours before sowing in well-drained soil. Maintain consistent moisture; seedlings emerge in one to two weeks. Young plants benefit from support.

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Images of Loofah

Distribution of Loofah

Quickly Identify Loofah

Care Guide for Loofah

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Common Pests & Diseases