Descripition: Cardamom of commerce is the dried ripe fruit (capsules of cardamom plant) often referred as the Queen of Spices because of its very pleasant aroma and taste. Cardamom is a perennial, herbaceous, rhizomatous plant. Based on the nature of panicles, three varieties are recognized viz. Malabar with prostrate panicle, Mysore with erect panicle, and Vazhukka with semi erect panicle. Uses: The major use is for the preparation of ‘gahwa’ a strong cardamom coffee concoction which is a symbol for hospitality among Arabs. Apart from this cardamom is widely used as a flavouring material in whole and ground form. In Asia, it can add a lingering sparkle to every kind of dishes both traditional and modern. Botanical Name: Elettaria_cardamomum Maton Family Name: Zingiberaceae Commericial Part: Fruit