Elettaria cardamomum GREEN CARDAMOM (15 seeds)

Green Cardamom, also known as Queen of Spices, is a fast-growing herbaceous perennial that typically reaches 1 meter in height.
It features long, smooth, and highly aromatic leaves. It is an exotic rhizomatous plant belonging to the Zingiberaceae (ginger) family, native to the Malabar Coast of India.

Green Cardamom seeds from Elettaria cardamomum are gray to brown, irregular, and rounded in shape. They measure 3 millimeters in length and are intensely aromatic.

Summer flowering begins in the fifth year after planting; the beautiful flowers are white with red markings and grow on long inflorescences produced at the base of the stems.

The fruits are three-sided, yellow-green capsules measuring 1 to 3 cm in length, each containing 15 to 20 seeds.

- Uses:

The Queen of Spices provides the spice of the same name. The dried green-gray capsules contain the aromatic seeds used extensively in Indian, Asian, and African cuisines. The pods are used either whole or ground into powder.

In traditional medicine, this aromatic Indian plant is widely used to aid digestion, treat urinary disorders, and possesses valuable antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Do not use for medicinal purposes without seeking medical advice.

- Germination and Sowing Seeds:

• The most favorable period to sow Green Cardamom is during May, June, and July.
• Soak the seeds in water for a few hours to facilitate germination.
• Sow them in a tray of fine horticultural potting soil at a depth of 3 to 4 millimeters.
• Water gently with a spray bottle.
• Place the tray in a greenhouse at a temperature of approximately 35°C.
• Germination will begin 4 to 8 weeks after sowing.
• Once seedlings reach 10 to 20 cm in height, transplant them into a 10-liter pot to allow for proper development.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

The use of a fine potting soil is recommended. The earth must be airy and well-draining.

- Exposure / Light:

It requires bright light but should not be placed in direct full sun. A partial shade exposure, such as under the canopy of other trees, is ideal.

- Irrigation / Water Needs:

This plant is water-hungry; regular watering is essential. Aim for every 2 days during the summer and once every 3 weeks in winter.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

It is not hardy at all. It is best grown in pots or in mild, tropical climates. It thrives in temperatures ranging from 25 to 35°C.

- Multiplication / Propagation:

Propagation is possible by dividing the rhizomes during summer or by sowing seeds. It cannot be propagated via cuttings or layering.

- Pests / Diseases:

The Queen of Spices is very resilient; however, it can occasionally be attacked by thrips or affected by the mosaic virus.

- Maintenance:

Divide the plant as it proliferates and prune old stems that turn yellow over time.