Heirloom Plants: Learn About Growing Jing Orange Okra

Gardeners in hot climates love the okra plant, and for good reason - it seems like no amount of heat can kill it. If you're an okra fan but you want something a little different and exciting, then Jing Orange is for you. This Asian heirloom produces pods in a spectacular shade of fire engine red. And they taste pretty great, too.

What is Jing Orange Okra?

Jing Orange okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is an heirloom variety that hails from Asia. It is very tolerant of dry and hot conditions. It may be a little slow to get started, but once it hits its stride, it's extremely prolific. Some gardeners report being overwhelmed by okra pods, but that's not really a bad thing, is it? The pods can reach 5 to 9 inches (13-23 cm.) in length, but they're best eaten if they're picked young at about 3 inches (8 cm.). The pods are very tender and spineless and aren't unpleasant even if eaten at their mature size. They have a great okra flavor and, most importantly, a remarkable bright color of deep orange to bright red. Be aware, though, that when cooked or pickled, the pods tend to lose their distinctive color and fade to a more traditional green.

Growing Jing Orange Okra

Jing Orange okra plants are tolerant of heat, but they're not cold hardy. If your climate experiences frost, start the seeds indoors about a month before the last spring frost, and don't transplant seedlings outside until the soil has warmed to at least 65 F. (18 C.). While they're very tasty, the plants can just as easily be grown as ornamentals - between the bright red pods and the yellow to white blossoms with red accents, they have a really striking appearance suitable for any flower garden. The stems and pods can also be dried at the end of the growing season for a great, colorful addition to dried flower arrangements.