Family: Zingiberaceae
Common name: Turmeric
A very commonly used spice in almost all curries, Turmeric powder is a staple in any Indian kitchen. There are more than 30 species of Turmeric.
Plant characteristics
Turmeric plants can grow to a height of 1 meter with a think fleshy stem that is covered with the base of leaves. Roots are thick and fleshy rhizomes which is what is used as Turmeric after drying and powdering.
Leaves are long, broad, and glossy about 50 cm long. Turmeric flowers are absolutely stunning, white, pink, or peach in color about 15-20 cm long. These flowers are produced directly from the rhizomes or roots, on long stalks.
These plants can produce small fruits that contain seeds, but they not generally seen in garden plants.
Gardening tips
Turmeric plants are very easy to grow in home garden and can spread very quickly, producing new plants from the rhizomes. They are resistant to drought and need watering only during summer months.
Overwatering can lead to root rot and reduced turmeric production. After the plant produces flowers, the stalks wither and dry. That’s when turmeric can be harvested.
Few turmeric roots can be kept aside to plant the next batch thus easily propagating from the parent plants.
Uses of Turmeric
Turmeric is said to have been in existence in Asia for thousands of years, with specific uses in Ayurveda, Siddha medicine, Unani and also folk medicine.
The leaves of turmeric plant is used to make a sweet; wherein rice flour and jaggery are layered inside the leaf, folded and steamed, giving the sweet a unique turmeric flavor.
Turmeric powder boiled with milk is given to children to boost their immunity and relieve chest congestion. Fresh turmeric is a key part of Thai cuisine, mostly grated fresh into the dish.
Turmeric contains curcumin, which gives it the deep golden orange color. It is used as a dye for clothing, but it’s considered a weak dye that does not last long.
Turmeric is used in traditional medicine to relieve pain and inflammation, stomach ailments and also a variety of other diseases.
Shell ginger or Alpinia zerumbet belongs to the same family as Turmeric and Ginger, and has similar but variegated leaves.
Propagation is from rhizomes, which can be soaked in water for day, and planted to grow new plants.
Photo Courtesy: Paulsy Willy
