**Growth**:
Vigorous climber, perfect for trellises and fences.
**Harvest**:
Produces long, cylindrical gourds, ready to harvest in 150-200 days. Harvest young for eating as a zucchini alternative or leave the fruit to mature for sponges.
**Care**:
Thrives in full sun with well-draining soil. Requires regular watering, especially during flowering and fruiting stages.
**Habitat**:
Can grow up to 30 feet as a vine, providing excellent coverage; ideal for vertical gardening.
**Health Benefits**:
When young, edible as a vegetable rich in fiber and vitamins. Mature gourds can be dried and used as natural sponges.
**Attributes**:
Drought-tolerant once established, and highly productive with proper care.
**Zones**:
Suitable for USDA Zones 7-11, but can be grown as an annual in cooler zones.
