Okra variety

Emerald Okra

Produces long dark green smooth pods that stay tender when picked at the right stage. Plants are vigorous in warm weather.

About Emerald

Emerald is an open-pollinated variety associated with development by the Campbell Soup Company in the mid twentieth century for use in canning and soups. It produces smooth, round, deep green pods without prominent ridges, and these pods are known for staying tender at a larger size than many ridged types. Plants are vigorous and can grow quite tall, often reaching 5 to 8 feet in a long, warm season.

Growing Emerald Okra

Give it a full-sun spot with plenty of room, spacing plants about 18 inches apart because they can become large and benefit from good air circulation. It needs a long, hot growing season, so start it early where summers are short. Because the smooth pods hold tenderness a bit longer, you can harvest at 3 to 4 inches, but check plants every day or two to stay ahead of toughening.

Other okra varieties

Variety characteristics are general guidance for US home gardens; performance varies by climate, soil, and season. Seed and plant availability differs by supplier. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.