Winged bean

The winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus) is a tropical legume celebrated for its nutritional and ecological benefits. Known as the “supermarket on a stalk,” this plant offers an extraordinary bounty, with its leaves, pods, seeds, flowers, and even tubers being edible and highly nutritious. The seeds, in particular, are protein-rich, comparable to soybean, and provide a significant amount of essential amino acids, vitamins like A and C, and minerals such as iron, calcium, and phosphorus. This makes it an ideal crop for addressing malnutrition in tropical regions.

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From a cultivation standpoint, the winged bean is a farmer’s ally. It is a nitrogen-fixing plant, meaning it enriches the soil by converting atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants, reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers. This process improves soil fertility, making it an excellent rotational crop or intercropping choice. Winged bean grows vigorously in hot, humid environments like Malaysia and require minimal inputs. Its robust root system and climbing habit allow for efficient capture of resourses and use of space when grown on trellises.

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Despite its incredible potential, winged bean remains underutilized. Encouraging its widespread adoption not only diversifies agricultural systems but also helps build resilience against climate change, improves food security, and contributes to sustainable diets. This humble plant holds the promise of nourishing both people and the planet while empowering local communities with a reliable and versatile crop.