Winged Bean Seeds | Asparagus Pea Climbing Vine

Grow a tropical climbing bean with a harvest that stands out. Winged bean, also called asparagus pea, produces green pods with four distinctive ridged edges on vigorous vines. Train it up a sturdy trellis and pick the immature pods while tender for warm-weather cooking.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Psophocarpus tetragonolobus
• Growth habit: Vigorous climbing vine; can reach up to 15 feet in suitable conditions
• Harvest: Four-winged green pods, best picked young
• Climate: Tropical perennial, grown as an annual where winters are cold
• Available sizes: 10 or 25 seeds, 1 oz, 4 oz, or 1 lb

Planting and care

Sow after all frost danger has passed, in a warm, sunny spot. Plant seeds about 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart, and install sturdy climbing support from the start. The existing growing guidance suggests soaking seeds before planting to help speed germination. Keep soil moist while the plants establish. Pinching growing tips when vines are around 12 inches tall can encourage branching.

Harvest and use

Pick immature pods while they are tender, roughly 2–3 weeks after flowering, and cook them in stir-fries or curries. Young leaves and flowers are also used in some culinary traditions, but proper identification and preparation matter. Do not eat dried seeds raw: they require thorough cooking. If growing the plant for roots or mature seeds, use reliable preparation guidance for that plant part before eating it.

Imagine the winged pods climbing beside your summer garden and landing in a sizzling pan with your favorite vegetables.