Lagenaria siceraria, commonly known as calabash, is an annual vine that is part of the gourd family. It is native to tropical Africa, where it thrives in warm, humid climates and is often found in open woodlands and along riverbanks. The plant is known for its vigorous growth and can reach lengths of up to 15 feet (4.5 meters). Calabash produces large, white, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom at night and are pollinated by moths. The fruit is highly variable in shape and size, typically harvested young for culinary use or allowed to mature for crafting into utensils or containers.

Calabash is valued for its multipurpose fruit, which when young is edible and has a mild, zucchini-like flavor. Mature fruits are dried and hollowed out to create bowls, musical instruments, and other objects. The plant is easy to grow and maintain, requiring full sun, regular watering, and well-draining soil. It is often grown on trellises or fences to support its sprawling habit. In cultivation, it can be used as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers and interesting fruit shapes. However, gardeners should be aware that it can become invasive outside its native range due to its rapid growth and prolific seed production.CC BY-SA 4.0