Get free shipping with $500+ orders! The Luffa plant, also spelled loofah, is a vigorous, vining member of the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae). It is well-known for its dual-purpose nature—producing both edible fruits when young and fibrous, sponge-like material when mature. Luffa plants are cultivated around the world for their culinary, medicinal, and household uses. In its early stages, luffa fruit is tender and can be eaten raw or cooked, similar to zucchini or squash. When left to mature, the fruit develops a fibrous interior that, once dried, is used as a natural sponge or scrubber. Luffa cultivation is rewarding but requires warm temperatures, plenty of sunlight, and a long growing season.