Edibles – Herbs – Common Turmeric

Common Turmeric 

Botanical name: curcuma longa 

Beginner friendly?: moderate 

Average size at maturity: 3-5 ft in height with a 1-2 ft spread 

Hardy zone: zones 8-11 

Growth rate: reaches fully mature size in first growing season 

Foliage color: green 

Flower color: white, yellow, pink 

Bloom time:  spring and summer blooms and harvest 

Pruning instructions: deadhead withered blooms and foliage as needed 

Propagation methods: propagate by crown division during the spring season 

Landscape use: herbal garden, borders/edging, container plant, shade garden

Special features: long-lasting blooms, heat tolerant, medical benefits 

Light needs: about 4 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use an organic fertilizer once a year in the early spring 

Best time to plant: spring 

Best type of soil:  loam, sand 

Companion plants: peppers, tomatoes, eggplant, mint, lemongrass 

Toxicity level: non-toxic for humans and pets 

Invasive species: no