SafePlants

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus)

Okra, scientifically known as Abelmoschus esculentus, is a warm-season annual vegetable also referred to as Okro, Ladies' Fingers, Bhendi, Bhindi, or Gumbo. It belongs to the same family as hollyhock, rose of Sharon, and hibiscus.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions the green skin of okra is "slightly fuzzy" and the flesh has "rows of creamy seeds." While not explicitly stated as harmful, the texture of the skin and the presence of small seeds could be a consideration for pets that tend to chew on plants.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Abelmoschus esculentus
• Synonym: Hibiscus esculentus
• Common Names: Okra, Okro, Ladies' Fingers, Bhendi, Bhindi, Gumbo, Witches Fingers.
• Family: Mallow family (Malvaceae - inferred from relation to hollyhock, rose of Sharon and Hibiscus)

Distribution and Habitat

• Originally from Africa.
• Widely used in cuisines such as Caribbean, Creole, Cajun, and Indian.
• Traditionally a southern U.S. plant.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Tall-growing, warm-season, annual vegetable.
• Edible green fruits shaped like fingers.
• The green skin is slightly fuzzy and the flesh has rows of creamy seeds.

Quirky Facts

• Okra is sometimes referred to as "Witches Fingers" at Morrisons.
• Slaves from Angola called okra "ngumbo".

Uses

• Valued for its edible green fruits.
• Okra stems are a popular ingredient in Indian and Middle Eastern cookery.
• It's being considered a "superfood" for people with or at risk of diabetes or cancer.

Interactions With Other Organisms

• The Indian government suspended exports of okra to Europe last week while it reviews industry pest control procedures.