Curcuma Plant Bulbs

The genus Curcuma contains mostly herbaceous perennials grown for their large canna-like foliage and colorful cone-shaped flowers. The broad leaves can measure from 18 to 40 inches long and 5 to 6 inches wide, and the spiky flowers come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, and white.  While some species prefer full sun and afternoon shade, others prefer full shade.

Curcuma is a genus of about 100 different species that range in size from 2 to 7 feet tall, including C. alismatifolia (Siam tulip, ornamental turmeric), C. amada (mango ginger), C. angustifolia (wild arrowroot, wild turmeric, narrow-leaved turmeric), C. aromatica (Cochin turmeric, wild turmeric), and C. longa (turmeric). The rhizomes of C. longa are used to produce a bright yellow spice and dye, but most curcuma are grown for their ornamental value.