Canteen Gourd (Lagenaria siceraria) - Another fascinating variety of the African Gourd Melon, the Canteen Gourd is shaped much like a large curling rock, with a flattened top and bottom and a broad, rounded body. Historically grown across Africa, Asia, and the Mediterranean, gourds of this type were dried and hollowed to create durable water vessels, hence the name “canteen.”
This low-maintenance, highly prolific vine produces many large fruits reaching up to 18” in diameter. Fresh gourds have a distinctive aromatic quality, and once cured, their hard shells are ideal for crafting bowls, birdhouses, storage containers, and countless creative projects. A striking and productive addition to the garden, Canteen Gourds blend beauty, history, and practical function.
110-120 days to maturity
10 seeds per packetÂ
Growing Instructions: Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Sow 1” deep in 2-3” pots and keep moist and in a warm area of at least 20 C. Germination can take anywhere between 1 - 5 weeks. Transplant in a very warm sunny location with good fertility. Plants will require consistent irrigation.
Â
