Turmeric, Curcuma longa, Organic Edible

Turmeric, Curcuma longa, Organic   History / Habitat and Distribution: Turmeric is native to the rainforests of southeast Asia. It is a perennial herbaceous plant in the ginger family Zingiberaceae. The tuberous rhizomes, or underground stems, have been used since antiquity as a spice, a condiment, a textile dye, a perfume, and medically as an aromatic stimulant.   Description: The turmeric plant grows to three feet and has beautiful oblong dark green leaves that are about five inches wide. The translucent white, yellow and maroon spike-like flower stalks are so beautiful it’s worth growing turmeric just for the flowers let alone the other ornamental, culinary, nutritional and healing properties of Curcuma longa.   Cultivation: Grow turmeric as annual in climates colder than zone 8, or a winter hardy perennial in zones 8 and higher. Turmeric is also easily grown in a container and moved to protection for those who wish to grow as a perennial in climates colder than zone 8. Turmeric gro