Tag: luffa gourd

• Question of the Week – Luffa Gourd

  

  This came from a crop grown in South Carolina. What is it? This is a dried and peeled luffa gourd. This ornamental (and edible) squash grows from a sturdy vine and can produce fruit up to 2 feet long. While most commonly known for its dried use as a sponge or dishcloth, the young fruit…

  Justin Ballew

  August 27, 2026

  Question of the Week

  cucurbit, luffa, luffa gourd, Question of the Week, vine

• Question of the Week – Luffa Gourd

  

  What crop is this? This is a luffa gourd (Luffa aegyptiaca). A similar species, (Luffa acutangula) is sometimes also called Chinese okra because of its okra-like shape and pronounced ribbing of its fruit. Both are members of the cucurbit family. Luffas may be harvested for eating while still tender, though the species pictured is very…

  Justin Ballew

  November 7, 2024

  Question of the Week

  cucurbit, luffa, luffa gourd, Question of the Week, specialty crop