Winged beans are typical to humid climatic regions.  Vines of this bean can be easily noticed grown in many places in tropical regions for its nutritious beans and nitrogen fixation properties. Legumes from this tropical plant are not the only edible parts as different parts of the plants are also eaten. The unusual name of this plant is endowed due to the physical appearance of the beans which seem to have wing like features. The plant has several common names like Asparagus Pea, Goa bean and Four-angled bean. Beans from this fast growing plant are made into different recipes and relished with rice or bread.

Scientific Name

Psophocarpus tetragonolobus is the scientific name of this plant.

Plant and Description

This plant is a multipurpose crop. Some characteristic features of this plant are:

Height : Height of the vines varies between 3 and 4 meters.

Bean pod : The pods have frilly borders and measure around 6 and 9 inches in length. They also have 4 rows of wing type features on them.

Seeds : Winged been seeds burst out from ripe pods which become brownish at the time of ripening.The beans are round in shape and emits an aroma which is similar to that of asparagus.

Flower : Light blue colored flowers adorn these plants.

Distribution

These legumes are widely grown in equatorial regions towards the west of Indian Ocean at the sea level. Many varieties of them are grown in USA. They may also grow in high altitudes like in New Guinea, Myanmar and Assam.  Production of these beans also takes place in Reunion Island and eastern Papua New Guinea. Apart from Asian countries like India and Sri Lanka they are cultivated in Africa, Australia and Hawaii as well.

Growing

It is grown for edible tubers as well as beans. For best results it can be grown in sandy loamy soils that have low organic content. Sow it in a moist soil. Frost is bad for it but it can tolerate high temperature. Ample rainfall is good for it to grow into mature plants producing nutritious legumes. Full sun is ideal for the growth of these plants. The pods can be harvested after 3 months of planting.

Health Benefits

To be blessed with optimum health, winged beans are simply ideal. Some of the health benefits derived by eating them are:

• When compared to variety of legumes, these beans contain the highest proportion of calcium which make bones strong and prevents breakage.
• Vitamins A and C along with several minerals make up the legumes that endow the body with powers to fight diseases.
• These edible seeds and its wing-like leaves are a vital source of protein.
• Its flour is an excellent supplement of protein.

Side effects

There are no known side effects of this legume but careful consumption is important to avoid allergies.

During Pregnancy

Legumes can be very nutritious during pregnancy but some women might be allergic to certain components for which prior consultation with the physician may help.

Nutrition

Nutritional value derived from 180g of seeds, fresh pod and root have been depicted below.

How to buy and store Winged beans

To keep them fresh, you can store them in a plastic bag with its neck tightly tied. Place it in the refrigerator for best results.