Curcuma aromatica, commonly known as Wild Turmeric, is a perennial herb native to the Indian subcontinent and parts of South and Southeast Asia, including South India, Sri Lanka, and the Eastern Himalayas. It typically grows up to 16 inches tall and is characterized by its broad, elliptic leaves that emit a distinct fragrance. The inflorescences, which are not particularly showy, emerge in early spring from the base of the rhizomes. The plant’s flowers are pale yellow, surrounded by pink or white bracts, and the flowering season is brief.

Wild Turmeric is valued for its aromatic rhizomes, which are a source of essential oil with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is commonly used in traditional medicine for treating skin disorders. In cultivation, it prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soils. While it is not typically grown on a large scale in gardens, it can be cultivated as an ornamental or for its medicinal rhizomes. It requires regular watering during the growing season but less so when dormant. Wild Turmeric can be propagated by division of the rhizomes. It is relatively low-maintenance once established and is not known to suffer from serious pest or disease problems. However, it may not be winter-hardy in colder climates and should be protected or lifted during the winter months in such regions.CC BY-SA 4.0