Hill Country Red okra grows on 5 to 6 foot plants with burgundy-colored stalks and pale yellow, hibiscus-like flowers. The pods develop once the blossoms fall away, and grow straight up like corn. Hill Country Red okra pods are generally harvested under 5 inches long, with the ideal size being around 3 inches. The pods are much wider than other varieties and are light green with maroon highlights and streaks, often clustered around the tips and tops of the pods. Longer pods may be more bronze-colored than green. The red-stemmed pods are said to have a more traditional okra taste, which is similar to eggplant or asparagus. The pods are firm, but tender. Each pod has defined ribs, and within the pod, each rib section contains small pale yellow seeds. When harvested young, the small, pudgy Hill Country Red okra can be eaten raw. Smaller pods are good for pickling.