Gourd Seeds - Tai Hoo - Hybrid

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Other Common Names: Hu la gua, edible bottle gourd, hyotan, calabash gourd, dudi, white-flowered gourd, moo gua, hu gua, hairy gourd, bottle gourd, hard-shelled gourd, hu lu gua, po gwa, poo gwa, oo lo kwa, snake gourd, or wu lo kwa.

How to Grow Tai Hoo Gourd

In warm areas, sow seeds after the last frost in a sunny location. For better germination, sprout seeds indoors by soaking in water for 24 hours and lightly clipping the tops. Wrap the seeds in a wet paper towel and keep them warm (between 75-85°F). Keep the soil moist and fertilize as needed. Low soil temperatures may result in low or no germination. Hill or mound planting can increase drainage.

The prolific growers must be kept in check in most garden scenarios. Don’t hesitate to prune back non-lateral branches and shoots that develop a few leaves past the fruits. Train this vine to climb vertical supports (such as a trellis, fence, or obelisk) for better air circulation and ease of harvest. This tenacious climber will grasp with surprising strength any structure nearby. Consider hand pollinating for a more abundant harvest.

Harvesting Tai Hoo Gourd

For consumption, harvest well before the skin has hardened and the gourd is about 8-9 inches long. The fruits are usually about 4 inches in diameter. The younger the gourd is, the more tender it will be. If left to fully mature and harden, the gourds develop a shell used as a receptacle.

Culinary Tips

Use in soup, stir-fries, and with stuffings. Young leaves and shoot tips are edible and usually cooked as greens. Make Japanese kampyo by slicing bottle gourd flesh into match sticks or strips and leaving it to dry. Add it to make sushi after boiling and salting.

Tips From Our Gardeners

“One of my favorite things about growing these plants is the large, white blooms that open at night for nocturnal pollinators. Be careful because some people don’t like the smell!”

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

"How To Germinate Hard Gourd Seeds"

Seeds Per Package

• 2 g packet - Approximately 28 Seeds
• 1 oz - Approximately 400 Seeds
• 4 oz - Approximately 1,600 Seeds
• 1 lb - Approximately 6,400 Seeds