Elettaria cardamomum

plant

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July 23, 2026

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Cardamom plant Shoots of the cardamom (*Elettaria cardamomum*) plant can grow up to 6 meters (20 feet).

Elettaria cardamomum, commonly known as cardamom, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the ginger family. It is native to the moist forests of southern India and is cultivated in India, Sri Lanka, and Guatemala.1

The plant produces aromatic, dried fruits or seeds that are used as a spice. Cardamom seeds have a warm, slightly pungent, and highly aromatic flavor, often described as reminiscent of camphor.1

Cardamom is a popular seasoning in South Asian dishes, particularly curries, and is also used in Scandinavian pastries. It is considered one of the world's most expensive spices by weight. The spice is known for its essential oil, which contains cineole and α-terpinyl acetate, contributing to its distinct flavor and scent.1

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Zingiberaceae
Major genera and species
The seeds of Elettaria cardamomum are the source of cardamom. Ginger is obtained from the fresh or dried rhizomes of Zingiber officinale, and a number of ornamental gingers are grown for their attractive flowers and foliage. Several species of shellflower (Alpinia) are cultivated as ornamentals.
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The seeds of Elettaria cardamomum are the source of cardamom. Ginger is obtained from the fresh or dried rhizomes of Zingiber officinale, and a number of ornamental gingers are grown for their attractive flowers and foliage. Several species of shellflower (Alpinia) are cultivated as ornamentals.
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cardamom
…dried fruits, or seeds, of Elettaria cardamomum, a herbaceous perennial plant of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). The seeds have a warm, slightly pungent, and highly aromatic flavor somewhat reminiscent of camphor. They are a popular seasoning in South Asian dishes, particularly curries, and in Scandinavian pastries.
Read More
…dried fruits, or seeds, of Elettaria cardamomum, a herbaceous perennial plant of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). The seeds have a warm, slightly pungent, and highly aromatic flavor somewhat reminiscent of camphor. They are a popular seasoning in South Asian dishes, particularly curries, and in Scandinavian pastries.
Read More