Gourd Luffa

4842 - Spongegourd or Galka (Luffa cylindrica)
This is a smooth skin type luffa, closely related to ridge gourd. The fruit is edible only when immature and is cooked like zucchini. The matured fruit forms sponge-like fibers inside. The dried matured fruits are often used as scrubbers, cleaning pads or bath sponges. Fruits are cylindrical-shaped, 8-12" long and 3" across, and with green skin and white flesh.