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Elettaria cardamomum
Green Cardamom
Elettaria cardamomum
Cardamom is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its aromatic and flavorful seeds. It's a rhizomatous plant that typically grows as a clump. It has upright stems, lance-shaped leaves, and produces small, fragrant flowers. The most well-known part of the plant is its fruit pods containing the valuable spices that are widely used in cuisines and other applications.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Culinary UsageEdible plant
Medicinal UsageMedicinal Usage
Duration to maturity12 months to harvest
Estimated Plant Lifespan10 years lifespan
Sun Requirements4-6 hours direct sunlight (Partial Sun)
Pollination

Method: insect

Watering Requirements

Method: top water

Frequency: when the top inch of soil is dry

Notes: Ensure adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Humidity Requirements

Level: high

Maintenance: regular watering and humidity trays

Care InstructionsRegular pruning can help maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Temperature Range

Min: 15°C

Max: 35°C

Alternative NamesCardamom, Amomum cardamomum, Cardamon

Cultivars

Zingiber officinale
Ginger
Zingiber officinale
Both cardamom and ginger are tropical, rhizomatous plants and often thrive in similar growing conditions. They benefit from each other by repelling pests and providing shade and support.
Piper nigrum
Black Pepper
Piper nigrum
Cardamom and pepper benefit from each other as they share similar climatic requirements and can often form a symbiotic relationship in the garden.
Solanum lycopersicum
tomato
Solanum lycopersicum

While both can thrive in similar conditions, competition for water and nutrients could negatively impact the growth and yield of cardamom.

Aphids

Aphids are small insects that suck sap from plant leaves, causing yellowing or curling. They can also transmit diseases. Infestation often shows up as distorted or stunted growth of the cardamom plants.

Mealybugs

Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that produce a white, powdery substance on plants. They feed on the sap, causing yellowing, wilting, and reduced growth. Infestation is often accompanied by a sticky residue.

Spider mites

Spider mites are tiny arachnids that suck the sap from leaves, creating stippling and webbing damage on plants. Infestation can lead to significant leaf damage, affecting the overall health and appearance of the plant.

Steps:

    • Divide the rhizomes of a mature plant into sections containing at least a few growth buds.
    • Ensure each rhizome division has healthy root structures and buds.
    • Plant the rhizome divisions in well-prepared, moist soil.
    • Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture.

Neem oil

Effective against a variety of pests mentioned above.

Diatomaceous earth

Can help prevent pests like aphids and spider mites.

Beneficial insects (ladybugs)

Natural predators of many common cardamom pests.