Turmeric

Scientific Classification & Quick Facts

Common name	Turmeric
Scientific name	Curcuma longa
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Liliopsida
Order	Zingiberales
Family	Zingiberaceae
Genus	Curcuma
Conservation status	Data Deficient
Type	Herbaceous perennial
Habitat	Warm, humid places with rich, well-drained soil
Native range	India and Indonesia
Colours	White flowers
Height	About 1 metre
Edible parts	Rhizomes (root-like stems)
Special feature	Yellow-orange spice, once called Indian saffron

Turmeric, called Curcuma Longa, is a herbaceous and perennial plant, that belongs to the  Zingiberaceae family. It is an herb, also known as Kasturi Manjal or only manjal. Turmeric is used as a primary spice in food dishes. It has antioxidant properties and also helps in boosting the immune system. It is an antiseptic, and when used immediately, it kills parasites and yeast. Against diseases and infections, it is a natural defense mechanism. It has anti-bacterial properties which makes it useful for treating and cleaning wounds. Its root is its useful part. Its flowers are very attractive and beautiful.

History

For thousands of years, turmeric was used in Asia. First, it was used as a dye. In Ancient times,  it was used as a spice as well as a perfume. Turmeric was called the Indian saffron in the middle ages because of its yellow orange color. In India’s Vedic culture, it was used as a culinary spice. In North India, it is commonly known as “Haldi”.

Anatomy

The turmeric plant grows 1 meter tall with underground Rhizomes. It produces beautiful, tall  and white flowers.. It is highly branched. This plant has cylindrical and aromatic Rhizomes. The leaves of this plant are alternate and are arranged in two rows. These leaves are divided into a leaf blade and petiole. A false stem is formed from the leaf sheaths. Its flowers are hermaphrodite.

Habitat

Turmeric is native to Indonesia and India. It is cultivated at the Islands of the Indian Ocean,  the mainland and the tropics. In South East Asia, it is native to the monsoon forest. In Indonesia its rhizomes are eaten raw.

Soil for Planting

The turmeric plant requires rich and well drained soil. It grows well in clay soil as well. Fertile soil is ideal for the growth of the plant. It does not have water retaining capacity.

Planting

Once the danger of frost has passed, turmeric should be planted in the spring season or in Northern Climates. For fully maturing, it takes 8 to 10 months. It is grown for its root like Rhizomes. It is planted by its seeds or rhizomes by burying them in wet soil.

Watering

The turmeric plant requires regular watering for good growth. Over-watering is not ideal for this plant.

Temperature and Humidity

The turmeric plant grows naturally in humid and warm climate. It is a tropical summer plant and requires moisture and heat. It cannot tolerate winter. In the summer season, it grows anywhere.

Flowering and Maturing Care

The turmeric plant thrives in direct sunlight but light shade is also ideal for it. For good growth it requires fertilizers and cow manure. Heavy shade is not good for the plant, it will reduce its yield.

Harvest

Harvesting of the turmeric plant is easy. It is harvested when the plant has changed from plentiful green to dry. Its harvesting is done when the leaves turn yellow. After planting, it matures in 9 to 10 months.

Pests and Pesticides

Many pests and diseases attack the plant. Spider mites may create a problem. It is also prone  to fungal diseases like Leaf Blotch and Leaf Spot. These diseases cause brown spots on the leaves.

Uses

Turmeric is very useful. People have traditionally used it for headache, cold, lung infection, menstrual problems and fever. It is also applied to skin for ringworm, pain and leech bites. Turmeric has been used in medicines, cosmetics and many other applications. It is used commonly in curries and dishes. Turmeric has traditionally been used for ailments such as sprains, strains and bruises.

Turmeric FAQs