Curcuma longa aka Turmeric

Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, is a flowering plant in the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. It is a perennial, herbaceous plant native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. The plant thrives in temperatures between 20 and 30 °C and requires high annual rainfall. The rhizomes of the plant are gathered each year for propagation and consumption. They are used fresh, boiled, and dried to produce a deep orange-yellow powder, which is commonly used as a coloring and flavoring agent in Asian cuisines, especially curries. Turmeric powder has a warm, bitter flavor and an earthy aroma. The main constituent of turmeric, curcumin, is approved as a food additive. Although turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic medicine, there is no high-quality clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness in treating diseases. Curcuma longa is an upright tropical plant that grows from fleshy underground rhizomes. It produces thin, oblong leaves and yellow to white tubular flowers. The plant is cultivated for its rhizomes, which are used to derive the spice turmeric. Curcuma plants, also known as hidden cone gingers, are known for their bold foliage and flamboyant floral show. They range in height from under 2' to over 7' tall. Despite not sprouting during the spring garden center season, Curcuma plants can be interplanted with spring bulbs. They are a unique addition to any garden and can be enjoyed later after purchase.