Malenge (Lagenaria siceraria/Bottle Gourd) A sprawling vine producing elongated, club-shaped gourds with hard shells when mature. Seeds germinate within 7-14 days at temperatures above 70°F and remain viable for 5+ years. Plant 1 inch deep with 48-60 inch spacing in zones 8-11, providing sturdy support for vines that spread 15-20 feet. Harvested young at 60-70 days for vegetable use or 120-150 days for dried containers. Special characteristics include dual-purpose use as both food crop and utility containers, natural resistance to many cucurbit pests, extensive root systems for erosion control, night-blooming white flowers with sweet fragrance, and traditional use in musical instruments.