Homonym: Luffa Cylindrica (Sponge)
Luffa cylindrica, commonly known as the sponge gourd or luffa, is a tropical and subtropical plant belonging to the cucumber family, Cucurbitaceae. It is cultivated primarily for its fibrous fruit, which, when mature and dried, can be used as a natural sponge. The plant features long, climbing vines with large, lobed leaves and produces yellow flowers that develop into elongated, cylindrical fruits.
The fruit of Luffa cylindrica is harvested when it is fully grown but still green, and it can be eaten as a vegetable. However, for sponge production, the fruit is left to mature on the vine until it turns brown and dries out. Once processed, the inner fibers are revealed, making it a popular choice for eco-friendly cleaning