Japanese name: カルダモン Scientific name:Elettaria cardamomum
[Overview]
A perennial 2–3 m tall that prefers damp shade or waterside sites.
It is known as a medicinal and aromatic plant.
The stem bears many leaves in two rows. The leaf sheaths wrap around and overlap to form a pseudostem. The leaves are oblong, 50–100 cm long and 5–10 cm wide, with pointed tips.
A panicle is borne on a flower stalk about 80 cm long. In the flower, a single staminode develops into a petal-like, conspicuous structure. The staminode, which spreads out like a lip, is white with a yellow margin and has reddish-purple markings.
The fruit is ovate to oblong, 1–2 cm, with a green to yellowish-green skin. The seeds are about 2 mm, with angular ridges, and have a distinctive strong fragrance.
[Uses]
It is also called the "King of Fragrance" and the "Queen of Spices." The seeds are used as a spice and also as an aromatic stomachic. In India it is also used in Ayurveda. An essential oil can also be obtained.
[Cultivation]
Propagate by division.
Winter temperatures of 8–12°C or higher are required.
It is sensitive to dryness, so water generously.
