General Description/History

Okra pods are tapered, slightly hairy fruits, up to 20 cm long that contain many seeds. Stems are long and thin. They may have distinct grooves or ridges running from top to bottom, and have a prominent stem cap and a tapered blossom end. When fresh they are green or red in colour. Dried pods are more commonly used in flower arrangements than fresh – these have a grey-brown colour with cream stripes and dark stems.

Available: Dried: all year, Fresh: late Spring to autumn

What to look for

• Avoid pods with yellow marks

Flower Care

1. Fresh pods need to be kept cool, but do not need to be put in water.
2. Do not place dried pods in water.
3. Do not wash okra pods as they become slimy.
4. Keep dried pods in a dimly-lit, dry room.

Interesting Facts about this Flower

Okra is grown as a food crop in many parts of the world, primarily Africa, the Mediterranean, Middle East, India and America. The plant is thought to have been brought to America via the African slave trade.

In some parts of the world the seeds are roasted and used as a substitute for coffee.

Botanical Name: Abelmoschus esculentus

Common Names: Gumbo, Lady

Stem Length: 30 – 70 cm

Country of Origin: Africa

Available Colours: Brown, Cream, Green, Red

Season: Summer,Autumn,Winter,Spring

Availability: January,February,March,April,May,June,July,August,September,October,November,Decemeber