Luffa operculata. From dooryard gardens along the Rio Mayo. Produces dozens of 2-3" fruit. Once dry, remove the thin skin to reveal the small scrubber “sponge.” In low desert, plant with summer rains. The small yellow flowers and unusual fruits makes wild luffa an attractive plant for a trellis. Approx. 25 seeds (1.5 g).
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I agree about the long vines. I planted this summer before last on a trellis that was in part shade ... the vines really headed toward the sun, and I got a nice harvest. This summer it volunteered in my garden and climbed all the way up into a mesquite tree, at least 15 feet high ... very fun to see the little yellow flowers and luffas hanging up there!
I grew these for the first time this year in Tucson, AZ. They were a little smaller than expected, but I think it was my fault - I tried to train them on a new trellis once they had already grown considerably, which was not good for the vines. My original trellis was not nearly big enough - the vines got really long. So, in my attempt to "restring" them, I think I damaged the vines. I will definitely try them again next year, but I'll either let them grow on the ground or let them grow against a taller wall with something taller to climb.
They got morning and afternoon sun (which is intense in the desert) and were on drip irrigation. I planted in late June, but could probably plant a little earlier with regular water.
The Rad part - I really do have tin y little luffas, that if were bigger would be perfect for scrubbing pots and pans- they are a little coarse for your skin.
