There are 2 cultivated species of luffa; Luffa acutanglia (ridged/angled luffa) and Luffa aegyptiaca (smooth luffa). The first can be difficult to grow in the higher latitudes, since it can be photo-period sensitive - which means it only blooms when days/nights are about 12 hours in length. Unfortunately for those with short seasons, that means the Autumnal equinox, in late September. I tried angled luffa twice, and never even got flowers before my weather cooled. Smooth luffa is more likely to succeed. I grew a variety of smooth luffa this year, after reading that they are more likely to be day-neutral. Had some reservations, since the seed was from Florida; but even planted late, I had fruit, and even a little ripe seed.

shavedmonkey, I don't find Libby's comment anything but showing her love for orchids, sharing her personal experiences, and being helpful. I appreciate your comments as well as Libby's and clearly, there's always something to learn about our beloved plants. Three is not a crowd here! I just took pictures of my plant today. shavedmonkey, you are right about this flower taking forever to bloom! I measured both stalks and one is 11" and the other 15". It took about 3 weeks to become this tall so maybe it's close to blooming.

That looks very healthy!

Tiffany, that's a possibility, but the leaves seemed to be pretty large, for Baccharis. I guess that I'll need to wait for flowers. Thanks.