The winged bean, also known as cigarillos, four-angled bean, four-cornered bean, dragon bean, etc, is a tropical herbaceous legume. The winged beans are an excellent source of calcium, and interestingly, they also contain phosphorus, which helps the body to build strong bones; it is also claimed that it lowers blood pressure, prevents diabetes, boosts haemoglobin levels, improves skin elasticity, etc. The bean possesses an adequate amount of folic acid, which is essential for pregnant mothers.

The winged bean is rich in nutrients, and every part of the plant can be used, roots, tender leaves, flowers, pods, and seeds. Its prolific production, ease of use, and delicious taste should make it a well-known crop. However, it is little known!

In Tamil Nadu, the winged bean is planted on trellises in the summer rains (August) and will start producing towards the end of the main monsoon at the end of December. It is such an easy plant to grow. The beans can be used in vegetable dishes, curries, salads, soups, etc.

The large round seeds are easy to dry, save, and plant again in the next season.
At Solitude, I always share the winged bean flowers with people on the farm tour. It always brings a smile to my face when I see the delight in people’s eyes, I call them winged bean candies because they are so sweet!