Cardamon plant (Elettaria cardamomum)

Cardamom Plant

(Elettaria cardamomum)

Bring a touch of the tropics to your garden with the aromatic Cardamom plant, grown both for its lush, exotic foliage and its prized, fragrant seeds. A member of the ginger family, it forms attractive clumps of tall, glossy, lance-shaped leaves that release a subtle spicy fragrance when brushed. In warm, humid conditions, mature plants produce small, white blooms with delicate purple streaks near the base of the stems — followed by green pods containing the famous cardamom spice.

Cardamom thrives in warm, frost-free regions of South Africa, particularly along the coast or in sheltered subtropical gardens. It prefers filtered sunlight or light shade, rich well-drained soil, and consistent moisture. For inland or cooler areas, it’s best grown in a large pot indoors or on a patio, where humidity and warmth can be better controlled. Keep the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged, and feed with a slow-release organic fertiliser during spring and summer.

This elegant plant brings a lush, tropical feel to shaded areas and is perfect for gardeners who enjoy growing unusual edible plants. With the right care, it rewards patience with both ornamental beauty and a hint of spice from its aromatic pods. The lifespan of a plant is 30 years or more, but each pseudostem is biannual in nature.

Flowering time

Spring to early summer (in warm regions)

Position

Bright filtered light or semi-shade

Water

Regular – keep soil moist but well-drained

Mature size

Up to 2-4 m tall × 1 m wide. It is a shallow rooted plant.

Frost tolerance

Low – protect from frost and cold drafts

Soil pH

Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6–7)

Health Benefits

Used for centuries in traditional medicine, Green Cardamom offers a range of natural benefits:

Aids digestion and relieves bloating
Freshens breath and supports oral health
Contains antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds
May help regulate blood sugar and support heart health

For sale in South Africa. Couriered nationwide.