About

Curcuma longa is a perennial herb that thrives in tropical climates, reaching heights of up to 1 meter (39 inches). It grows from thick, fleshy rhizomes found beneath the soil. The plant features alternate leaves arranged in opposing rows along its stem; these leaves are elongated, tapering to a point, and exhibit a dark green color on the upper surface while appearing lighter underneath. At the top of the flowering stem, yellow to white tubular flowers emerge, nestled within a rosette of bracts. This species has been cultivated for millennia primarily for its rhizome, which produces turmeric, a widely used spice. Over time, it has become fully domesticated and no longer produces seeds, with propagation being achieved solely through the division of its rhizomes.

About the genus

This genus consists of herbaceous perennials, with certain species known for their edible rhizomes that yield turmeric and curcumin. The plants feature long, dark green foliage and may produce tall flower spikes adorned with angula blooms in pink, purple, or white hues.

Growing conditions

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

Plant type

Herbaceous Perennial, Conservatory Greenhouse, Herbs - Culinary

Habit

Clump forming, Columnar upright

Foliage

Evergreen

Height

0.5-1 metres

Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Time to full height

2-5 years

Suggested uses

Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical, Houseplants

Native to

India, Malaysia

Care notes

Cultivation

Grow in a well-drained but moisture retentive soil, rich in organic matter and in indirect, bright light and in a warm conservatory, greenhouse or window indoors, in temperatures no lower than 18°C (65°F)

Pruning

No pruning required. Remove old, yellowed stems as necessary

Propagation

Propagate by division

Pest resistance

Generally pest-free

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free