Gourds are usually made out of a type of plant called a cucurbit. Cucurbits are a family of plants that includes pumpkins, squash, and cucumbers. Gourds are typically round or oval in shape, and they can vary in size from a few inches to several feet long.
The shells of gourds are made up of a hard outer layer called the epicarp, a middle layer called the mesocarp, and an inner layer called the endocarp. The epicarp is usually smooth and shiny, while the mesocarp is fleshy and contains the seeds of the gourd. The endocarp is the innermost layer of the shell, and it is usually thin and papery.
Gourds are a versatile plant that can be used for a variety of purposes. Their hard outer shells make them ideal for making containers and musical instruments, and some varieties are even edible.