Cardamom of commerce is another mostly used Indian masala. It is the dried ripe fruit (capsules of cardamom plant) often referred to as the Queen of Spices because of its delightful aroma and taste. Cardamom is a perennial, herbaceous, rhizomatous plant. Based on the nature of panicles, three varieties are recognized vizâ??Malabar with prostrate panicle, Mysore with erect panicle, and Vazhukka with semi-erect panicle. In the case of Malabar, plants are of medium size (2 to 3 mtr height) with pubescent leaves (on the dorsal side) and fruits globose, whereas plants are robust (3 to 4 mtr height) with leaves glabrous on both sides with ovoid capsules in the case of Mysore. The Vazhukka variety is a mix of both the above in physical characteristics. This Indian masala usually adds a lingering sparkle to every kind of dish, both traditional and modern. It is also used in baked goods and confectioneries