Luffa acutangula
TAXONOMY
FamilyCucurbitaceae
GenusLuffa
Zone10
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Luffa acutangula, commonly known as the angled luffa or ridged gourd, is a climbing annual plant in the Cucurbitaceae family. Native to tropical regions, it thrives in seasonally dry climates. The plant is known for its fibrous fruit, which is often used as a natural sponge when mature. It is also cultivated for its edible young fruits.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Angled Loofah
Chinese-Okra
Cucumis Acutangulus
Cucumis Lineatus
Cucumis Megacarpus
Cucumis Operculatus
Cucurbita Campanulata
Cucurbita Umbellata
Dishcloth Gourd
Momordica Tubiflora
Angled luffa
Cucurbita acutangula
Luffa acutangula var. acutangula
Luffa acutangula var. amara
Luffa acutangula var. forskalii
Luffa amara
Luffa cattu-picinna
Luffa drastica
Luffa fluminensis
Luffa foetida
Luffa forskaolii
Luffa gosa
Luffa kleinii
Luffa plukenetiana
Luffa tenera
Luffa umbellata
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD1,800
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Luffa acutangula requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in warm temperatures and moderate humidity. Regular watering is essential, but the soil should be allowed to dry out partially between waterings. The plant benefits from a support structure to climb on.Harvest
Luffa acutangula, commonly known as angled luffa or ridged gourd, should be harvested when the fruits are young and tender, typically around 60-70 days after planting. The ideal time to harvest is when the fruits are about 6-12 inches long and still green. To harvest, use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the fruit from the vine, leaving a small portion of the stem attached. It is important to harvest regularly to encourage continuous fruit production. If the fruits are left to mature on the vine, they will become fibrous and inedible, but can be used for making natural sponges.Soil
Luffa acutangula prefers well-draining loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot. A soil mix that retains some moisture but does not stay waterlogged is ideal.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season to support its vigorous growth and fruit production.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for Luffa acutangula as it is an annual plant. However, if started indoors, transplant seedlings to a larger container or directly into the garden once they are strong enough and the risk of frost has passed.Propagation
Luffa acutangula is typically propagated by seeds. Sow seeds directly in the garden or start them indoors a few weeks before the last frost date. Ensure the soil is warm and consistently moist until germination occurs.Pruning
Pruning is beneficial for Luffa acutangula to encourage healthy growth and fruit production. Remove any dead or diseased leaves and trim back excessive growth to maintain the plant's shape and support structure.Toxicity
Luffa acutangula is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. The young fruits are edible and commonly used in cooking, while the mature fruits are used as natural sponges.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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