Vigna is a Chinese asparagus bean, an annual climbing plant up to 5 m tall. The edible parts are thin green pods up to 60 cm long, harvested immature when they are juiciest and tenderest. Vigna has a sweeter taste compared to standard asparagus beans.
The crop is characterized by high protein content (about 30%) and starch (≈50%), and is rich in B vitamins, vitamin C, carotene, iron, and calcium. Due to these properties, it is considered a diet and medicinal plant.
For cultivation, sowing is recommended at a depth of 5–6 cm with a density of 3–5 g per m² and a distance between rows of 45 cm. Vigna tolerates partial shade well, but in colder places it is better to start with seedlings and then transplant into open ground. The variety grows rapidly – the first crop appears 2½‑3 months after sowing, and during the growing season the plant constantly increases green mass and forms new fruits.
Fruits can be used in various culinary forms: boiled, fried, canned or frozen. Due to their structure and taste, they are suitable for both home cooking and professional gastronomy.
