Winged beans are a tropical legume where the entire plant is edible: the pods have four "wings," the leaves can be cooked like spinach, and the roots form a tuber similar to a potato. They are a nutritious food source, rich in protein, vitamins A and C, and iron, and are a staple in many Southeast Asian cuisines.
Growth: They are a vining plant that requires sturdy support, like a trellis, to grow.
Pods: The pods are angular with four frilly "wings" running lengthwise, and they can be green, purple, or red.
Edible parts: You can eat the pods when young, and the mature seeds can be used like soybeans.
Other edible parts: The leaves taste like spinach, the flowers can be eaten, and the roots can be cooked like a potato or sweet potato.
Pods: Young pods can be eaten raw in salads or sliced and stir-fried.
Seeds: Mature seeds can be dried and ground into flour or used similarly to soybeans.
Roots: The tuberous roots are edible cooked or raw and have a nutty flavor.
Leaves: Young leaves are tender and can be cooked like spinach.
Climate: They thrive in hot, humid conditions but can also be grown in temperate zones.
Planting: Seeds are frost-sensitive and should be planted after the last frost. Cooler soil temperatures can hinder germination.
Preparation: Before planting, seeds benefit from being soaked for 12–24 hours and may require gentle nicking to help with germination.
| Type |
Bean/Pea |
| Family |
Legume Family |
| Temperature Soil |
60F |
| Temperature Daytime |
70-85F |
| Temperature Evening |
60F+ |
| Lighting |
Full, 6-8 Hours Per Day |
| Water |
Steady: 6 Gallons / Week |
| Maturity |
Moderate: 55-70 Days Harvest |
| PH Neutral |
5.5-7.5 |
| Zones |
3A-11B |
| Plant Placement |
16 Plants, 8 Per Row |