Turmeric is related to the gingers and is grown to use either fresh or dried in cooking. Curcuma longa is from South East Asia Curcuma domestica is from India
Growing tumeris is not difficult, a humus rich well drained moist soil in part shade, full shade will encourage leaf growth but will derease the growth of tubers. In cooler climates we suggest growing tumeric in pots or containers and giving it some protection from the winter cold, use a greenhouse or warm sunny patio area.
Usually seen as a tropical or sub tropical plant it can be grown in cooler climates as a perennial. Usually tumeric is grown for the roots or tubers, however the wide green leaves are also used in Malaysian cooking, either as wraps to stem food in or finely cut and used in curries.
Turmeric also has very pretty white flowers, and could be grown a a garden plant for these alone. |
