The sponge gourd, also known as the luffa plant, is famous for its inner sponge, which is used as a handy scrubber primarily for the body, or for countertops, etc. As it is not a typical garden plant, some patience is required for the proper growth and harvest of the luffa. Once harvested the it needs be dried out and the shell can be peeled off, revealing the inner sponge-like texture. It is also used widely in Indian cuisine, in both the southern and northern styles. Here's a quick primer on how to grow sponge gourd.