Chinese Okra

We are not talking about the okra found in your gumbo.

Chinese okra is a member of the squash and melon family. Native to South Asia, this fruit is used as a vegetable while young and as a scrubbing sponge when mature. These fruits can grow 18” long and look impressive when interspersed with red noodle bean plants!

Chinese okra (Nayan j Nath) CC BY-SA 4.0

Red noodle bean

Chinese okra description

Chinese okra (Luffa acutangula) looks like a cucumber crossed with a zucchini with longitudinal ridges. Flowers are a sunny yellow and beautifully fragrant, especially in the evening. Vines are sturdy and may climb up to 12 feet, making these plants an excellent choice for a pergola, fence, or trellis. ​

Female Chinese okra flower (Nayan j Nath) CC BY-SA 4.0

Male Chinese okra flower (Nayan j Nath) CC BY-SA 4.0

The broad leaves look like other cucurbits. Extrafloral nectaries are commonly found and provide a haven for beneficial insects. The slightly bitter fruit and flowers are edible, and the skin is tough.

Extrafloral nectaries and ants (Brnfvr) CC BY-SA 4.0

How to grow Chinese okra

These plants can be grown in temperatures ranging from 68°F to 106°F. They need lots of sunlight but may benefit from protection from harsh afternoon sunlight that may cause sunburn.

The seeds are large and easy to work with. Many people soak seeds overnight before planting. Plant seeds one-half inch deep, next to something the seedlings can climb, in soil with good drainage. Water deeply each week, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Chinese okra pests and diseases

If it gets too cold, the leaves will darken, and water-soaked necrosis and wilting may occur. Leaf beetles and leaf miners are common pests of Chinese okra. Yellow spot may also occur.

Harvest fruits while young and enjoy the way they soak up sauces. And if your Chinese okra gets too old, you can always let it dry and enjoy a luffa in your bath!