Shark Fin Gourd Seeds (Fig Leaf Gourd)
Botanical name: Cucurbita ficifolia
Also known as: Shark Fin Gourd, Fig Leaf Gourd, Shark Fin Melon
 
Seed count: 5 seeds per packet
 
The Shark Fin Gourd, also known as the Fig Leaf Gourd, is a vigorous climbing cucurbit valued for its heavy yields, long-storing fruit, and versatility in both the kitchen and the permaculture garden.
 
This plant produces large green gourds with firm white flesh that becomes stringy when cooked, making it well suited to soups, broths, and slow-cooked dishes. Unlike many other gourds, the fruit stores exceptionally well, making it a practical choice for self-sufficient growers.
 
Once established, this is a robust and productive vine that thrives when given space to climb over trellises, fences, or unused areas of the garden.
 
 
Why Grow Shark Fin Gourd?
Very productive once established
Excellent storage life after harvest
Suitable for trellising or vertical growing
Useful culinary texture for soups and broths
Reliable performer in diverse conditions
 
This is a great option for growers who want yield, resilience, and usefulness, not just novelty.
 
Growing Notes (Australian Conditions)
Plant type: Vigorous climbing vine
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil
Water: Regular watering during establishment
Spacing: Allow room to spread or provide strong support for climbing
 
Sow seeds once the risk of frost has passed and soil temperatures have warmed. This plant benefits from space and airflow and will reward you with substantial growth through the season.
 
Harvest & Use
Harvest fruit once fully mature and firm. When cooked, the flesh separates into strands, traditionally used in soups, broths, and slow-cooked dishes. Immature fruit can also be used similarly to other squash in savoury cooking.
 
Storage
Fully mature fruit can be stored for months in a cool, dry place, making this an excellent crop for long-term food storage and winter use.
 
 
Learn More & Growing Resources
If you’d like a deeper dive into growing, harvesting, and using Shark Fin Gourd in a permaculture setting, you can explore the following resources:
 
👉 Watch the full growing video on YouTube
https://youtu.be/QsAAdd_yFoc?si=TeIkPJl7VnD1GIy8
 
👉 Read the full blog post & growing guide
https://www.vastharvestpermaculture.com.au/post/how-to-grow-shark-fin-gourd
 
The blog includes detailed growing notes, seasonal behaviour, and how this plant fits into a productive food forest or backyard garden.