Cucurbitaceae
Ludia cylindrica
Sponge gourd · Mdodoki
C
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This vigorous annual climbing vine, known as the Sponge gourd, features bright green, lobed, heart-shaped leaves and produces distinctive yellow flowers. Its elongated, cylindrical fruits are green when young and edible, maturing into a fibrous, brown structure used as a natural scrubbing sponge.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for a Kilifi-coast garden, it thrives in full sun and requires sturdy support like a trellis or fence for its climbing habit. Plant in rich, fertile, well-drained soil, spacing plants 3-4 feet apart.
Growing notes
A warm-season, frost-tender annual, Sponge gourd needs a long, hot growing season. Seeds benefit from soaking for 24 hours to aid germination. Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist once established and feed regularly with a balanced fertiliser for optimal growth.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: intechopen.com, researchgate.net, ask-ayurveda.com, almanac.com, efloraofgandhinagar.in, malawiflora.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.