Cow's Horn Okra Seeds (Abelmoschus esculentus cv.)

Harvested from the gardens at Monticello.
Okra was frequently grown at Monticello after Thomas Jefferson’s retirement in 1809, and often as a companion plant to “tomatas.”  Jefferson family recipes include various types of okra stews in which okra was blended with tomatoes and other tangy vegetables.  A member of the Mallow family, okra is a highly ornamental vegetable with large, tropical leaves and handsome yellow flowers.  'Cow's Horn' is a southern heirloom variety with distinctive curved fruits.

Direct sow seeds outdoors after the last frost, when soil temperatures reach above 65 degrees F.  To hasten germination, soak seeds for 24 hours before sowing.  Harvest the young fruits when they are no longer than 3".  Approximately 20-25 Cow's Horn Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus cv.) seeds per packet.

Share photos of your garden with us! @Monticelloshop #PlantingHistory