Winged Bean
Psophocarpus tetragonolobus
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Quick Info
water
Regular watering during establishment, then moderate
spacing
50 cm between plants
depth
3-4 cm deep
sun
Full sun
season
Plant at start of wet season
frost
Frost sensitive
height
2-3 m climbing vine (needs trellis)
gemination
7-14 days
sprout to harvest
60-80 days for green pods
soil ph
5.5-6.5
soil type
Well-drained fertile loam
fertilizer needs
Low nitrogen (fixes own), moderate phosphorus
About
Winged bean is called the "soybean of the tropics" because nearly every part is edible and nutritious: young pods, leaves, flowers, seeds, and tuberous roots. It is a climbing legume perfectly adapted to PNG lowland and mid-altitude conditions. The plant fixes nitrogen in the soil and is an excellent protein source in tropical diets.
Health Benefits
Pods and seeds are very high in protein (comparable to soybean). Good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron, and phosphorus. Tubers are protein-rich (unlike most root crops). Leaves provide protein and minerals.
Market Requirements
Young pods should be tender and snap easily. Mature seeds should be dry and clean. Tubers sold fresh like potatoes. All parts sold fresh at local markets.