Overview
Curcuma angustifolia is a clump forming, columnar upright herbaceous perennial in the genus Curcuma, part of the Zingiberaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Curcuma angustifolia grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include patio and container plants, sub-tropical, houseplants and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Curcuma angustifolia, commonly known as Bombay arrowroot or Indian arrowroot, is a clump-forming, columnar upright herbaceous perennial from the Curcuma genus. It has evergreen foliage and thrives in partial shade with a preference for moist but well-drained loam or sandy soils across a range of pH levels. Suitable for sheltered positions facing east, south, or west, this plant is ideal for patios, containers, conservatories, and greenhouses. It is hardy to H1a and is best propagated by division, with spring being the season of interest.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Curcuma
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1a
Plant details
Curcuma angustifolia size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial, Conservatory Greenhouse, Herbs - Culinary
- Habit
- Clump forming, Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical, Houseplants, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Curcuma angustifolia
- Propagation
- Division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Curcuma angustifolia?
Curcuma angustifolia prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Curcuma angustifolia need?
Curcuma angustifolia grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Curcuma angustifolia hardy in the UK?
Curcuma angustifolia has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Curcuma angustifolia?
Division.
More in the Curcuma genus
- Curcuma 'Red Emperor'
- Curcuma amadaamada ginger
- Curcuma australasica
- Curcuma mangga
- Curcuma xanthorrhiza
- Curcuma zedoariazedoary
- Curcuma 'Siam Sunrise' (Siam Series)