They are in fact African in origin, but they are grown in both Africa and Asia now. I was actually the first to put these out on show. Our crop researcher was working with them, and I cannot think of where his seed supplier is. I know it is in China, so you would have to get permission to grow them. However, there could be some speciality growers here in the US that have them available. They are a gourd species (obviously), so starting with that might be helpful. You can sometimes find them and other species like them in specialty gourd seed mixes. Also, if you can make it over to the Land, ask one of the boat operators if they can get in touch with the greenhouse staff. You might be able to get a lead from a team member that way. Good luck!