Originally from Africa, okra runs in the blood of many Southerners for whom summer is not complete without a plate of gumbo, lightly battered fried okra or a side of pickled pods. The stunning plants belong to the mallow family with the relation to hibiscus readily apparent by the flowers, so be sure to make ornamental plantings in addition to those marked for harvest. For best yields pick every other day during the season but special care should be taken when harvesting because it can irritate the skin of some gardeners. Nutrients: vitamins B6, C, and K, folate, calcium, manganese.
