Cut and whole Nkruma Tenten Okra on a white background.
Okra Seeds, Nkruma Tenten
Nkruma Tenten Okra pods on the stalk.
Nkruma Tenten Okra with flowers and foliage.
Cut and whole Nkruma Tenten Okra on a white background.
Okra Seeds, Nkruma Tenten
Nkruma Tenten Okra pods on the stalk.
Nkruma Tenten Okra with flowers and foliage.

Okra Seeds,
Nkruma Tenten

4.714 Reviews#OK115 · 30 seeds
Price
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Description

(Abelmoschus caillei). The famous “tree okra” of Ghana! Unique pods are tender and deep green, sometimes tinged in red. This prized variety is superior to most okra from the Americas. An exceptionally tall and delicious variety known to be long lived in its native range in Ghana, West Africa. The name literally translates to “tall okra,” and the plants can reach up to 12 feet tall. Solomon Amuzu, of Call to Permaculture Farm in Ghana, tells us this variety can live up to 15 or 20 years in the tropics if well maintained! Its flavorful leaves are widely used among the Akan, Ewe, Ga, and Fante people. The leaves have a wonderful spinach flavor when cooked in soups, stews, and curries. The pods are rich in mucilage. You can prune this variety to keep it shorter. This historic variety can have a slight bit of variation in color and fruit shape, but is among the best we have tried in our Missouri gardens.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Abelmoschus caillei
Life Cycle
Perennial in zones 9–10
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–10
Days to Maturity
60–75
Planting Depth
½ in.
Plant Spacing
24–35 in.
Ideal Temperature
75–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Sow Nkruma Tenten okra seeds after the last frost, once soil temperatures reach at least 65°F. In colder zones, it can be started indoors 4 weeks before the last frost of spring. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Soak seeds for 12–24 hours to soften the seed coat and speed up germination. Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and 24 to 36 inches apart, allowing at least 4 feet between rows. Choose a site with full sun and fertile, loose soil. Keep the soil evenly moist during seedling establishment.

How to Grow

Water deeply once or twice per week. Apply compost or balanced fertilizer every few weeks to encourage healthy growth. Harvest pods when they are 4–6 inches long for best texture. Stake taller plants if needed. Remove overgrown pods to stimulate continued flowering and pod production throughout the season.

How to Save Seeds

  • Allow pods to mature fully on the plant until dry and brown
  • Harvest pods before they begin to split
  • Remove seeds and dry them thoroughly in a well-ventilated area
  • Store in a cool, dry place in airtight containers labeled with variety name and harvest year

FAQ

What does “Nkruma Tenten” mean, and where is this variety from?

Nkruma Tenten means "tall okra" in the Akan language of Ghana. This traditional variety is popular across West Africa and valued for its tender, flavorful pods and vigorous growth.

Is Nkruma Tenten okra good for soup and stews?

Yes, its mucilaginous texture makes it an excellent choice for traditional soups and stews. Harvesting young pods ensures tenderness and maximum flavor, especially for recipes requiring thickening.

Can I grow Nkruma Tenten okra outside of Africa?

Absolutely. Nkruma Tenten grows well in any region with a long, hot growing season. In cooler climates, start seeds indoors and transplant after frost to give plants a strong start.

Browse our full range of okra seeds.

Customer reviews

4.7 / 5 14 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Showstopper blooms: Pink and yellow flowers worth growing on their own.

  • Tender big pods: Big pods stay tender longer than most; still pick young.

  • Loves the heat: Keeps producing through 100 degree southern summers.

  • Long producers: Tall, sturdy plants bear late into fall.

  • Slow starter: Takes longer to establish and fruit than other okra.

More to grow!

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