Karphul
Achasma loroglossum
Family: Zingiberaceae
What it is like
A shrub or small tree. It grows 5 m tall. There are prickles along the stem. The leaves are twice divided and there are 8-18 pairs of pinnae. There are up to 50 pairs of pinnules on each pinnae. The flowers are yellow. They are in large clusters at the ends of branches. The pods are flattened.
Where it is found
It is a tropical plant.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, India
How it is used for food
The rhizomes are eaten fresh of with betel nut. It is also added to curries for flavour.
Edible parts
Rhizomes
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Gandh tora