Plant of the day
Luffa acutangula
Ridge GourdVine
Luffa acutangula is a cucurbitaceous vine commercially grown for its unripe fruits as a vegetable. Mature fruits are used as natural cleaning sponges. Its fruit slightly resembles a cucumber or zucchini with ridges. It is native to South Asia and has been naturalised in other regions. It is also grown as a houseplant in places with colder climates. English common English names include angled luffa, Chinese okra, dish cloth gourd, ridged gourd, sponge gourd, vegetable gourd, strainer vine, ribbed loofah, silky gourd, and silk gourd.
FamilyCucurbitaceae
GenusLuffa
NativeAsia
LifespanAnnual
More Information
Explore additional details about Hibiscus rosa-sinensis.
Botanical Information
Scientific NameLuffa acutangula
Common NameRidge Gourd
FamilyCucurbitaceae
GenusLuffa
Physical Characteristics
Blooming Information
Environmental Information
Pests & Diseases
- Aphids
- Whiteflies
- Spider mites
- Mealybugs
- Thrips
- Leaf spot
- Root rot
- Powdery mildew
- Rust
Additional Notes Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is the national flower of Malaysia and a popular ornamental plant used in hedges, borders, and containers.