Eletteria cardamomum, also known as green cardamom, is a plant in the family Zingiberaceae. It is native to India and Sri Lanka. The plant grows to a height of 1-5 m. The leaves are lanceolate, 10-20 cm long and 2-5 cm wide. The flowers are white with purple spots, and borne in spikes. The fruit is a three-sided capsule, containing black seeds.
Elichi Green is used as a spice in many cuisines, especially in South Asia. The seeds are used in both sweet and savory dishes. They are also used in Ayurvedic medicine.
Benefits:
Elichi Green is a good source of manganese, iron, and magnesium. It also contains antioxidants that may help protect against some chronic diseases.
Water requirement:
Elichi Green requires a humid climate with plenty of rainfall. The plant does not tolerate drought well. It needs well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Light:
Elichi Green requires partial shade to full sun.
Temperature:
Elichi Green prefers warm temperatures and will not tolerate frost.
Harvesting:
Elichi Green is harvested when the fruits are mature but still green. The fruits are dried in the sun or in an oven.
Propagation:
Elichi Green is propagated from seed. Sow the seeds in well-drained soil in a warm, sunny location.
You can also divide cardamom rhizomes that are at least one year old with two growing stems to get more plants.
Purchase seed specifically designed for planting, as opposed to just cracking open a couple pods from the pantry.
Landscape uses:
Green cardamom can be used in the landscape as an accent plant or in containers. It can also be grown as a houseplant.