Wild Luffa aina
(Luffa operculata)
Wild luffa (Luffa operculata) is an annual vining plant of the Cucurbitaceae family that includes gourds, squashes, and cucumbers. Botanists consider the origin of this plant to be from Mexico to northern and eastern parts of Brazil. It has several common names, depending on the region where similar species exist. Related species include both the more edible Luffa aegyptiaca, Luffa acutangula, and the more industrial Luffa cylindrica. All are edible, but some varieties and growth stages are tastier than others. Wild luffa is egg-shaped and has spikes; whereas vegetable varieties and their cultivars are typically longer and smoother.