Elettaria cardamomum
TAXONOMY
FamilyZingiberaceae
GenusElettaria
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Elettaria cardamomum, commonly known as cardamom, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the tropical forests of India. It is known for its aromatic seeds, which are used as a spice in cooking and traditional medicine. The plant grows from rhizomes and produces tall, leafy stems. It thrives in seasonally dry tropical climates and is often found in shaded, humid environments.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Alpinia Striata
Amomum Racemosum
Amomum Repens
Cardamom
Zingiber Minus
Alpinia cardamomum
Amomum cardamomum
Cardamomum malabaricum
Cardamomum minus
Cardamomum officinale
Cardamomum verum
Elettaria cardamomum var. minor
Elettaria cardamomum var. minuscula
Elettaria repens
Matonia cardamomum
Zingiber cardamomum
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity70%
GDD5,475
pH6
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Cardamom plants require bright, indirect light and should be kept in a warm, humid environment. They prefer moderate temperatures and should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases.Harvest
Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) is typically harvested when the seed pods are still immature but have reached their full size, which usually occurs about 3 years after planting. The pods should be handpicked to avoid damaging the plant and to ensure that only the ripe pods are collected. Harvesting is often done in the early morning to prevent the pods from splitting open in the heat of the day. After harvesting, the pods need to be dried quickly to preserve their flavor and prevent mold growth. This can be done by spreading them out in a single layer in a well-ventilated area or using a drying machine.Soil
Cardamom plants prefer well-draining loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Adding compost or well-rotted manure can help improve soil fertility and structure.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering. Reduce fertilization during the dormant period.Repotting
Repot cardamom plants every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Cardamom can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes. The best time to propagate is during the spring. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has at least one growing shoot. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil and water thoroughly.Pruning
Prune cardamom plants to remove dead or damaged leaves and to maintain a tidy appearance. Pruning can also help improve air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. The best time to prune is during the growing season.Toxicity
Cardamom is not toxic to pets or humans. The seeds are commonly used in cooking and traditional medicine. However, as with any plant, it is best to keep it out of reach of pets and children to prevent accidental ingestion of non-edible parts.Additional
Cardamom plants can benefit from occasional misting to increase humidity, especially in dry indoor environments. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Regularly check for pests such as aphids and spider mites, and treat infestations promptly.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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