The towering stalks of the okra plant provide height, texture, and color to the home garden. Both beautiful and productive, okra can be harvested for several weeks throughout the summer. Okra is easy to grow if you nick the hard seeds with a clipper first. Traditionally used in Southern cuisine, okra can thicken soups and is delicious when fried. And did we mention its flowers are a showstopper in the garden? Learn more about growing okra.