Winged Bean, Heirloom Seeds

Winged Bean, Heirloom Seeds — The Tropical Legume Where Every Part of the Plant Is Edible

The Winged Bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus) — also known as Goa Bean, Four-Angled Bean, Four-Cornered Bean, Manila Bean, Princess Bean, Asparagus Pea, and Dragon Bean — is a remarkable tropical herbaceous legume where every part of the plant is high in protein, including the flowers (up to 15% protein). Vibrant deep red to crimson flowers bloom in pairs above trifoliate leaves, followed by impressive four-winged seed pods up to 3½ inches long. Young green pods are best enjoyed when small (under one inch) — steamed, sautéed, or used as an edible garnish. Thrives in poor soil and full sunlight. Germination time: 10–21 days.

Why Grow Winged Bean?

• Every part of the plant is edible and high in protein — including the flowers (up to 15%)
• Vibrant deep red to crimson flowers — beautiful and ornamental
• Four-winged seed pods — up to 3½ inches, distinctive and striking
• Thrives in poor soil — a practical and resilient legume
• Widely recognized in South Asia — for its versatility and disease resistance
• Open-pollinated — save seed year after year

Growing Notes

Pre-sprout seeds indoors by soaking for 24 hours, then keeping at 77°F until sprouted. Plants grown at low temperatures produce more tubers; higher temperatures encourage leaf and bean growth. Fertilizing is rarely necessary in fertile soil. Keep area clear of weeds. Harvest young green pods 2–3 weeks after flowering (under 1 inch) for best eating quality. After 6 weeks, pods turn brown and crack open to reveal dry beans.

Germination time: 10–21 days
Packet size: ~15+ seeds
Type: Heirloom, Open-Pollinated, Tropical Legume
Sun: Full sun
USDA Zones: 9–12 (or grow as annual in cooler zones)