Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Turmeric has culinary, ornamental, and therapeutic value. These plants produce golden, yellow-fleshed roots. These roots are a key ingredient in curry blends and make a beautiful fabric dye. A relative of ginger, turmeric thrives in a warm, moist environments. In North Carolina (zone 7b/8a), turmeric acts as a tender perennial (dying back to the ground in the winter and returning the following summer). The plant produces upright, green, broad-leafed foliage. If their North Carolina season is extended, they can produce white flowers. Turmeric prefers warmth, moisture and bright sun.

Harvesting: Rhizomes are ready to harvest when the leaves begin to yellow and die back.