GRAFIN

Lagenaria 'Griffin' – an annual vine of the gourd family that reaches a vine length of up to 10 m and requires support for vertical growth. The plant is characterized by a branched structure, green leaves with a pentagonal shape and slightly wavy edges. All growth occurs during the summer; after seed germination (soil temperature 25–30 °C), young plants are transplanted into open ground in June when the threat of frost has passed.

The fruits of 'Griffin' have an elongated-bottle shape and reach a height of 15–20 cm. At the beginning of ripening, they are light green with light spotting; at full maturity, a sturdy corky skin forms, after which the flesh dries out, leaving an hollow vessel. Young fruits (2–3 days) can be eaten – fried, stewed, made into fritters, or pickled like zucchini. For decorative purposes, fruits are cut in August–September, leaving a long stalk, and dried until completely dry (3–4 months). Dried vessels are used as gourds, mate tea containers, lamps, or decorative elements; they can be coated with linseed oil, enamel, or painted with acrylic paints.

For successful cultivation of 'Griffin', regular care is required: loose fertile soil, feeding with organic and mineral fertilizers, as well as hand pollination (fruits do not set without it). Seeds are pre-treated – soaked or the 'horns' are cut off to speed up germination. Plants are grown via seedlings in mid-to-late April; in northern regions, greenhouses are used. Due to its decorative value and culinary possibilities, Lagenaria 'Griffin' is becoming a popular choice for vertical greening and creating unique garden elements.