Velvet leaves, lacy white flowers, and bottle-shaped fruits distinguish this beloved Palestinian gourd that can be picked young for a delicious meal or left to dry for use as a bowl or vessel. This variety was introduced to us by Vivien Sansour, founder of the Palestine Heirloom Seed Library. Vivien describes Yakteen, which means simply "gourd" in Arabic, as "a magical being, a beloved Palestinian food." Much like other bottle-type gourd varieties, Yakteen grows tall with a vining habit which, if trellised, will provide a glowing green canopy dangling with smooth-skinned fruits.
