SPONGE GOURD/15 seeds per pack
Sponge gourd, also known as *Luffa cylindrica* or *Luffa aegyptiaca*, is a fast-growing vine that produces elongated, cylindrical fruits. The fruit is dark green when young and tender, covered in fine, ridged skin. As the sponge gourd matures, the flesh inside becomes fibrous, eventually forming the spongy texture for which it is named.
In its young, tender stage, sponge gourd is a popular vegetable in various Asian and African cuisines. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and is often used in stir-fries, soups, and curries. The flesh is soft, with a texture similar to zucchini or summer squash, and it readily absorbs the flavors of accompanying ingredients.
The plant itself is a vigorous climber, requiring a trellis or support to grow effectively. It thrives in warm, tropical climates with plenty of sunlight and regular watering. 
When fully mature, the sponge gourd is no longer edible, but it can be dried and processed to create natural sponges, commonly used for cleaning and exfoliating. The mature fibrous network inside the fruit is what gives it this unique utility, making it both a useful vegetable in its young stage and a practical tool when fully ripened.