Luffa cylindrica

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  • Herbarium No: UPH NO. V--1106
  • Luffa cylindrica
  • M.Roem.
  • Botanical Name/Scientific Name: Luffa cylindrica
  • Genus: Luffa
  • Synonym: Cucumis melo L.
  • Common/Local Name(s): Sponge gourd, loofah, or vegetable sponge
  • Family: Cucurbitaceae
  • Botanical Description: Luffa cylindrica is a vigorous annual vine that can grow extensively, often reaching lengths of several meters. The stems are robust, climbing, and tendril-bearing, allowing the vine to attach to and climb over various structures. The leaves are large, alternate, and palmately lobed, typically measuring 10-30 cm across. The lobes are pointed, with a somewhat rough texture. Leaves are medium to dark green, hairy, and have a slightly coarse feel. The plant is monoecious, producing both male and female flowers on the same plant. The flowers are bright yellow and resemble those of other cucurbits. Male flowers are borne in clusters, whereas female flowers usually appear singly. Flowers are pollinated by insects, particularly bees, which are attracted to the bright flowers and their nectar. Fruits and Seeds The fruit is elongated and cylindrical, resembling a large zucchini when immature and becoming more fibrous and woody as it matures. Texture and Taste: Young fruits are tender and edible, often used in cooking similar to zucchini or cucumbers. As the fruits mature, they lose their tenderness and develop a network of fibrous tissue that is dried and used as a sponge. The mature fruits contain numerous flat, black seeds that can be easily extracted and sown.
  • Flowering/Fruiting: Flowering typically begins from June to August.
  • Plant Uses: Culinary Uses,Cosmetic and Health Uses and Industrial Uses.
  • Origin: Introduced
  • Locality: University of Port Harcourt Botanical Garden.
  • Habit: Climber
  • Mode: Cultivated

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