True cardamon

Botanical Name: Elettaria cardamomum
Common Names: True Cardamom, Green Cardamom, Cardamon

True Cardamom is a magnificent tropical perennial from the ginger family that brings an exotic touch to local gardens. Famous for its highly aromatic seeds and lush, arching foliage, it functions as both an incredible culinary harvest and a striking understorey plant. While it thrives naturally in rainforest conditions, it adapts well to protected spots in home gardens, making it a prized addition for spice lovers and rare plant collectors. One of the only gingers that don't die back in Perth's winter.

Features:

Ideal prune height range: 1.5-3m

pH growing conditions: 5.5 to 6.5

Shade or full sun: Prefers rich, dappled shade or protection from harsh afternoon sun

Minimum pot year 5: 45L pot

Time to fruit age: 3-4 years from rhizome division or seed

True Cardamom forms dense clumps of vibrant green, lance-shaped leaves that release a pleasant spiced scent when brushed. Small white flowers with faint purple markings appear near the base of the plant, followed by green seed pods containing the prized, fragrant black seeds. It loves consistent moisture, rich organic matter, and shelter from strong winds or frost.

Interesting Notes:
Known as the "Queen of Spices," True Cardamom is one of the oldest and most valuable spices on earth. Beyond harvesting the seed pods for curries, desserts, and teas, the aromatic leaves can also be used to wrap fish or steep into warming infusions.

A fantastic understorey species for food forests, permaculture setups, or sheltered garden beds.

Limited stock. Pickup from Parkwood, WA. Delivery to Perth Metro only.

Keywords: True Cardamom, Elettaria cardamomum, green cardamom, spice plant Perth, exotic food forest, edible perennial plant