turmeric
Curcuma longa
USDA zones7 to 11
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to wet soil
Size3 to 4 feet tall12 to 24 inches wide
- Habit
- Erect
- Bloom season
- Summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Yellow, white
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, neutral, alkaline
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a perennial for food gardens, containers, and borders. It is hardy to USDA zone 7, or down to 0°F (-18°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to wet, sandy or loamy soil. Its large, dramatic leaves can wrap fish for baking, which adds a nice flavor. It makes a long-lasting white, cone-shaped flower in late summer and fall. You can grow it in pots and keep them above freezing in winter.
Pairs well with Common ginger, Cilantro, Basil, and African marigold.
Native range
India.