Bottle Gourd
Fruit VegetablesIntermediate

Bottle Gourd

Lagenaria siceraria

Scientific Name

Lagenaria siceraria

Family

Cucurbitaceae

Origin

Africa

Type

Annual climbing vine

75-100 days

Culinary Uses

Flavor: Mild, slightly sweet when young

  • Curries and stews when young
  • Stuffed preparations
  • Juice for health drinks
  • Dried shells used as containers
  • Traditional Portuguese soups

Planting Calendar

Sow Indoors

MarchApril

Sow Outdoors

May

Harvest

AugustSeptemberOctober

Health Benefits

  • Very low calorie, excellent for weight loss
  • High water content aids hydration
  • Cooling effect, good for summer heat
  • May help reduce blood pressure
  • Traditionally used for digestive issues