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Ridge Gourd
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

Care Guide

Everything you need to know to keep your Ridge Gourd healthy and thriving.

Sunlight

Full Sun

6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.

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Watering

Moderate

Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering.

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Soil

Well-drained

Prefers well-drained, fertile, loamy soil rich in organic matter.

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Fertilizer

Every 2-3 weeks

Use balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during growing season.

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Pruning

Regular

Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage more blooms.

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Temperature

18-30°C

Thrives in warm temperatures. Protect from frost.

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Seasonal Care

How to care for your Hibiscus throughout the year.

View as
JFMAMJJASONDFloweringPruningFertilizeWater Daily

Common Problems & Solutions

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Yellow LeavesCause

Overwatering or poor drainage

Solution

Reduce watering and improve drainage.

PestsCause

Aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites

Solution

Use neem oil or insecticidal soap.

No FlowersCause

Lack of sunlight or nutrients

Solution

Provide 6+ hours sunlight daily.

Wilting LeavesCause

Underwatering or extreme heat

Solution

Water thoroughly and move to shade.

Expert Tips

Deadhead regularly to encourage more blooms.

Mulch the soil to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Move the plant to a larger pot if roots are bound.

Use organic compost for healthy growth and more flowers.