It is a green vegetable with a tip at the end and a lighter green head, which is inedible and to be thrown away. It tastes mild and slightly grassy.

Ladies' finger or okra is a popular vegetable that is nutritious and has a high fibre content. It contains both soluble as well as insoluble fibres and is used in various recipes.

The best way to select ladies' finger is to look for smaller pods as they are tender. These also taste better. The brighter coloured ones and those that are unblemished, and firm are the best quality lady's finger.