Winged Bean Seeds,
Urizun Japanese
Description
(Psophocarpus tetragonolobus) Pole bean. An early maturing and supremely delicious winged bean from Japan. This highly adaptable winged bean variety is not day length sensitive, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of growing areas. Winged beans are native to equatorial Asia. Baker Creek's founder, Jere Gettle, first encountered winged beans on a trip to Thailand. Being a tropical crop from the equator, the winged bean typically takes a long season to flower, only setting pods just before frost in our Missouri climate. For years Jere searched for a winged bean variety that would bear pods earlier in order to enjoy a longer harvest season. Urizun is just the variety he had been searching for; this variety will begin to produce pods in August, and heavy production continues until frost. This heat-loving vegetable is especially popular on the island of Okinawa, Japan, where it takes center stage during the warm summer months. Vines are lush and tropical looking, with large, lavender flowers and unique pods. The vines will readily climb a trellis or fence, making this an exotic edible ornamental. Traditionally blanched and stir fried with ume (pickled Japanese plum), we love to toss them into the wok with just about anything; they are also great in soups or steamed. Sliced pods resemble little stars and are a fun way to introduce kids to this nutritious vegetable.
Growing Tips: The winged bean Urizun thrives best in warm, tropical climates and requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It's important to plant it in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 6.8. Consistent moisture is key, especially during flowering and pod development. Additionally, providing a sturdy trellis or support structure is essential as the vines can grow over 10 feet tall.
Plant Details
- Botanical Name
- Psophocarpus tetragonolobus
- Life Cycle
- Annual
- Growth Habit
- Pole
- Sun Requirement
- Full sun
- Days to Germinate
- 7–14
- Days to Maturity
- 120
- Planting Depth
- 1–2 in.
- Plant Spacing
- 6 in.
- Ideal Temperature
- 75–95°F
- Frost Hardy
- No
When to Grow
How to Sow and Plant
How to Grow
How to Save Seeds
FAQ
What pests and diseases should I watch out for?
Common issues include aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and organic pest control methods are recommended.
When should I harvest the Urizun winged bean pods?
Harvest the pods when they are young and tender, at about 6 to 8 inches long. Urizun begins bearing around 120 days from sowing; in our Missouri climate that means August, with heavy production continuing until frost. Overly mature pods become fibrous and less desirable.
How can I store the harvested Urizun winged beans?
Fresh pods can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider drying the beans.
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