Red okra seeds

Common name: Red Okra Scientific name: Abelmoschus esculentus Also known as: Red Qanawiya Red okra is a plant species belonging to the genus Abelmoschus of the Malvaceae family, and its green fruits are edible. It is an annual or biennial type. The plant reaches a height of up to 2 meters. The leaves are broad, measuring between 10 to 20 cm in length. They are lobed with 5 to 7 segments. • Flower of the Red Okra plant: The flowers have a circumference ranging from 4 to 8 cm, each consisting of 5 petals that range in color from white to yellow with purple spots at the base of each petal. • Fruit and seeds of the Red Okra plant: Its fruits are cooked and are long pods covered with soft fuzz, reaching up to 20 cm in length. This variety is distinguished by its red color. • Growing season of the Red Okra plant: Its seeds are planted in January and February in warm regions. • Suitable climate and soil for growing the Red Okra plant: Growing okra requires at least eight hours of sunlight daily. It is preferred that the soil is loose, fertile, and slightly alkaline. If the soil is acidic, some lime should be added a few months before planting, along with appropriate fertilizer. It is sensitive to frost and drought and should be watered regularly. • Method of cultivating the Red Okra plant: It propagates through seeds planted at a depth of 1 cm from the soil surface. Organic fertilizer can be added at least once to accelerate growth and development. It can also be propagated by seedlings. • Its benefits and uses: It is used for food and has multiple health benefits. A type of fiber is extracted from its stems and mature fruits, which is used in textile and paper manufacturing. • Native habitat of the Red Okra plant: Okra originated in tropical Africa and has been cultivated in the Middle East and India for a long time. In the 19th century, wild okra plants were observed along the White Nile in Sudan. Its cultivation is widespread in Saudi Arabia and most Arab countries.