Food Forest Plants

False Cardamom | Alpinia Nutans

Sorry, I am not allowed to ship to WA, TAS, NT, and I don’t ship internationally!

$9.95

8 in stock

False Cardamom (Alpinia species)

Overview

False Cardamom is a lush, tropical understory plant that adds a vibrant green presence to any food forest or garden. It is the cold-hardiest of the Alpinia species, though probably frost-sensitive. Its spicy-scented leaves are prized in cooking and herbal use. 

Soil, Sun, and Water Requirements

Prefers rich, moist soil and regular watering during warmer months. Likes shade and part-shade and looks bad in full sun, but will survive. Very hardy and handles heavy clay soil well.

Growth Habit

Grows 1–1.5 meters high and wide or more. Can be grown in pots, even indoors. 

Culinary Uses

The leaves have a spicy aroma and can be used fresh in curries, or stuffed into poultry. They are also suitable for preparing aromatic teas.

Medicinal Uses

Herbalists use False Cardamom leaves for hypertension (high blood pressure), as a diuretic, antifungal, or anti-ulcer remedy.

Other uses

I use the plant to stabilise banks and fill gaps. You can cut it down to the ground with a whipper snipper for mulch. 

Disclaimer:
We love plants as much as you do! All plants sold by Food Forest Plants are intended for ornamental, educational, or gardening purposes. Some may have traditional culinary or medicinal uses, but we cannot give medical advice—please consult a qualified professional before consuming or using any plant. We take great care in labelling, but mistakes can happen. Food Forest Plants is not responsible for any illness, injury, or other effects from using, handling, or consuming plants. Use at your own risk.

False Cardamom (Alpinia species)

Overview

False Cardamom is a lush, tropical understory plant that adds a vibrant green presence to any food forest or garden. It is the cold-hardiest of the Alpinia species, though probably frost-sensitive. Its spicy-scented leaves are prized in cooking and herbal use. 

Soil, Sun, and Water Requirements

Prefers rich, moist soil and regular watering during warmer months. Likes shade and part-shade and looks bad in full sun, but will survive. Very hardy and handles heavy clay soil well.

Growth Habit

Grows 1–1.5 meters high and wide or more. Can be grown in pots, even indoors. 

Culinary Uses

The leaves have a spicy aroma and can be used fresh in curries, or stuffed into poultry. They are also suitable for preparing aromatic teas.

Medicinal Uses

Herbalists use False Cardamom leaves for hypertension (high blood pressure), as a diuretic, antifungal, or anti-ulcer remedy.

Other uses

I use the plant to stabilise banks and fill gaps. You can cut it down to the ground with a whipper snipper for mulch. 

Disclaimer:
We love plants as much as you do! All plants sold by Food Forest Plants are intended for ornamental, educational, or gardening purposes. Some may have traditional culinary or medicinal uses, but we cannot give medical advice—please consult a qualified professional before consuming or using any plant. We take great care in labelling, but mistakes can happen. Food Forest Plants is not responsible for any illness, injury, or other effects from using, handling, or consuming plants. Use at your own risk.