Type: Open Pollinated / Heirloom
Relative Days: 70
Skin Color: Red and Green
Life Cycle: Perennial in warmer, frost-free regions but typically grown as an Annual in most climates
Characteristics:
Hill Country Red Okra is a striking Texas heirloom believed to have originated in the Hill Country region of southern Texas. This variety produces beautiful red-stemmed plants that reach 4 to 6 feet tall, with green pods accented by reddish tips and ribs. The pods are best picked small, around 3 inches long, for peak tenderness and flavor.
Highly drought tolerant and well adapted to hot southern climates, Hill Country Red is prized for its rich, traditional okra taste and visual appeal. It's a favorite for pickling but also delicious fried, sautéed, or stewed. The colorful plants and flavorful pods make it a standout in both garden beds and kitchen dishes.
Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus)
Okra is a popular vegetable commonly found in both home and commercial gardens. A significant acreage is planted for the soup and frozen food industry. While new varieties of okra are not introduced as frequently as some other vegetables, plant breeders and commercial companies continue to improve existing varieties, with some hybrids being released.
Temperature
Plant okra when the soil temperature reaches at least 60°F for good seed germination. Okra thrives in hot, humid summers and requires warm areas with plenty of sunlight.
Soil
Okra grows best in well-drained, fertile soils with good water retention capacity. Avoid planting in very light, sandy soils or those with poor drainage or known hardpans.
Planting
Plant seeds 1 1/2 to 2 inches deep, placing 4 to 6 seeds per foot of row. Thin plants to 8 to 12 inches apart.
Spacing
- Within the row: 18–24 inches
- Between rows: 42–60 inches
Harvest
Okra grown for processing usually produces pods on brittle stems. These pods can be broken off with a snap, leaving the stem attached to the plant. For processing, allow the pods to grow as long as possible without becoming fibrous or hard. If the pod tip snaps off evenly, it is generally still tender.
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