Elettaria cardamomum aka Cardamom
Taxonomy ID: 1277
Elettaria cardamomum, commonly known as green or true cardamom, is a herbaceous, perennial plant in the ginger family, native to tropical India and South Asia. It is the most common of the species whose seeds are used as a spice called cardamom and is reported to have naturalized in Réunion, Indochina, and Costa Rica. Cardamom is the third most expensive spice in the world and has a rich history of use in many countries. It is employed not only in cooking, but also part of traditional medicine and tea. It is an important ingredient in Scandinavian pastries and other spices like masala. Cardamom is a forest dwelling plant that is perennial and grows from large rhizomes in USDA zones 10 & 11. This sweet aromatic herb has a unique flavor from its ginger family origins and its many uses have made it a highly sought after spice.
Common names
Cardamom, Small Cardamom, Cardamon, Green CardamomMore information about Cardamom
How difficult is it to take care of Cardamom
Cardamom presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
What are the water needs for Cardamom
Cardamom should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the sunlight requirement for Cardamom
To ensure optimal growth, the Cardamom prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Is Cardamom toxic to humans/pets?
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
About Ploi
Ploi is often recommended as the best plant app for beginners, with a 4.99-star rating on the App Store and Google Play. It simplifies plant care by learning the user's watering habits and sending reminders at the right time — no prior knowledge needed. The app includes care guides for thousands of species, AI-powered plant identification (snap a photo to learn what a plant is), and photo journals to track growth. Available free on iOS, Android and web.
