Okra Red, Lady’s Fingers

(Lycopersicon esculentum )

A popular crimson red medium tomato with great taste that tolerates low night temperatures, so it is ideal for cooler area. A Russian heirloom that is an early producer. A tough and vigorous producer that needs staking.

An attractive cultivar medium sized, scarlet red fruit that is full of flavour. Tolerant of cool night temperatures and ideal for cool climate gardens

Flavours/Food Partners

A rich flavored tomato that partners well with Latin herbs like garlic, oregano, marjoram, rosemary and thyme. Use with any good salad vegetable, Nasturtium flowers and mixed fresh herbs to make an attractive and tasty salad.

Health/Cooking/Medicinal

Like all tomatoes, Red Russian is high in the cancer fighting agent, Lycopene and also Vitamin C. For a classic rich sauce cook and mix with garlic, marjoram, sweet basil, diced shallots, and fresh pizza thyme. Finely dice, mix finely chopped shallots, fresh pesto basil and extra virgin olive oil and place on lightly toasted Turkish bread then top with an anchovie for a special homemade bruschetta.

Landscaping/Planting

Plant in an airy, sunny position in well drained soil or very large pots. Requires a 1.1 to 1.4 m stake.

Cultivation/Fertiliser

Like all tomatoes it must receive a deep soaking when almost dry and should not receive overhead watering. Feed regularly with Seasol and Powerfeed. A small amount of dolomite lime after planting will make stronger plants. Remove side shoots and develop two or three main leaders. Harvest when fruit is full color

Herb Attributes

Position Full Sun
Height 1.2m
Width 50cm
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Description

(Abelmoschus esculentus Red)

A tall growing warm season annual vegetable with hibiscus-like flowers and burgundy fruit that is popular in most tropical and sub tropical climates.

Flavours/Food Partners

A mild flavour similar to eggplant with quite a sticky texture. Partners well with onions, tomatoes, eggplant, chillies and warm spices like cumin and coriander. A natural thickener for soups and stews.

Health/Cooking/Medicinal

Very low in calories and contains no saturated fats or cholesterol. They are also a good source of iron, calcium and magnesium. For best results Okra should be cooked on a high heat. Grilled or steamed. Avoid brass, iron and copper pans when cooking as they will discolour the pods. Consumption of food rich in vitamin C can help to develop a strong immune system which may assist in the reduction of cough and cold symptoms.

Landscaping/Planting

One of the most heat and drought tolerant vegetable species in the world but severe frost can damage pods. They require a rich well drained soil with protection against strong winds.

Cultivation/Fertiliser

Pick deep red pods that are 5-10cm long. Apply regular applications of Seasol and Powerfeed to keep the plant healthy and producing well.

Herb Attributes

Position FULL SUN, LIGHT FROST
Height 1.8M
Width 1.2M

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