Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum)

Also known as: Green cardamom, Cardamon

Elettaria cardamomum is a fragrant, aromatic, perennial herb that reaches a height of 2 to 4 meters. Its leaves are alternately arranged in two rows and are linear-lanceolate, measuring between 41 and 61 cm in length, with pointed tips. The plant produces white to pale violet flowers on a loose spike that is 30 to 61 cm long. The fruit is a yellow-green, three-sided pod, 1 to 2 cm in length, containing 15 to 20 black and brown seeds.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Cardamom

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

1.8 m to 4.5 m

Spread

3 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2-4 cm

Flower Color

White Yellow

Images of Cardamom

Quickly Identify Cardamom

Lance-shaped leaves up to 2 feet (60 cm) long with purple-tipped yellow flowers.

Striking yellow flowers with lilac-purple veins arranged in loose panicles.

Oblong, 2 cm capsules with three-angled, smooth surfaces and highly aromatic seeds.

Smooth, glossy, sword-shaped leaves up to 24 inches (60 cm) long.

Cane-like stems reaching 6-15 feet (1.8-4.6 meters) with trailing shoots bearing seed capsules.

Scientific Classification of Cardamom

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Zingiberales

Family

Ginger

Genus

Elettaria

Species

Cardamom

Planting and Growing of Cardamom

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-95℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Cardamom?

The watering amount for Elettaria cardamomum should ideally saturate the soil without leaving it waterlogged. Aim for about 500 ml per watering session, enough to moisten the root zone uniformly without causing standing water. Ensure excess water drains out to prevent root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Cardamom? ›

What should I do if my Cardamom is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Cardamom? ›

How to save an overwatered Cardamom? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Cardamom?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Partial sun maximizes Elettaria cardamomum's foliar development and pod production efficiency by balancing sun exposure and shade, mimicking a forest understory environment.

What are the ideal lighting conditions for Elettaria cardamomum? ›

How can I achieve the ideal light conditions for this plant? ›

What benefits does Elettaria cardamomum gain from ideal lighting? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Cardamom?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 95℉

Elettaria cardamomum thrives in warm, humid environments, with an ideal temperature range from 68°F to 95°F. These temperatures support vigorous growth and optimal physiological function, mimicking the plant's native tropical habitat.

What Soil is Best for Cardamom?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Elettaria cardamomum thrives in well-drained soils that prevent waterlogging. Proper drainage ensures the roots remain healthy, promoting optimal growth and aromatic yield. A soil rich in organic matter is essential for Elettaria cardamomum. It provides necessary nutrients and supports the soil's ability to retain moisture, fostering vigorous plant growth. Elettaria cardamomum needs consistently moist soil, but not overly wet. Maintaining moderate moisture levels helps sustain healthy root systems and maximizes plant vigor.

How to Fertilize Cardamom?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When fertilizing Elettaria cardamomum, ensure you apply a balanced fertilizer at half-strength. Avoid adding too much to prevent overfertilization. In general, 1-2 teaspoons of liquid fertilizer per gallon of water works well for maintenance.

How to Prune Cardamom?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Before pruning, make sure you have clean, sharp pruning shears. Clean tools help prevent the spread of disease. Sterilize them with alcohol before starting. Look for any yellow, brown, or dead leaves on the Elettaria cardamomum. These should be your primary targets for removal as they can sap energy from the healthy growth. Carefully cut away dead or dying leaves at the base, close to the main stem. Make neat cuts to avoid damaging the plant, which can lead to infections. To maintain an appealing shape, selectively trim excess foliage that causes overcrowding. This not only improves the look but boosts airflow. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Cardamom plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late spring, Summer

Begin by selecting viable seeds. Soak them in water for 24 hours to improve germination rates before planting them in a well-drained seed tray filled with rich, organic soil.

Gently dig up the mature plant and divide its root clusters with a sharp knife. Ensure each division has at least one healthy shoot and sufficient roots to sustain it.

Plant the divided rhizomes in individual pots filled with fertile soil. Ensure they are planted at the correct depth and kept moist but not waterlogged as they establish.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Cardamom plant?

Repotting frequency: every 2-3 years

Elettaria cardamomum needs repotting when its roots start to circle the pot, visible through the drainage holes. When you notice slowed growth or the plant becomes root-bound, it's time to consider repotting. Spring and early summer are ideal for this process due to the active growth phase.

Select a pot that's 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one. A larger pot provides enough space for root expansion, reduces the risk of root circling, and allows better moisture management. Ensure it has drainage holes to prevent root rot and waterlogging issues.

Opt for a soil mix that is rich in organic matter with excellent drainage capabilities. A loamy soil mixed with sand and perlite encourages healthy root development by balancing moisture retention and drainage, which is crucial for Cardamom.