Curcuma longa (Turmeric)

Originating as a cultivated crop in South and Southeast Asia, this rhizomatous perennial herb grows about 3 feet tall. Broad leaves rise from clusters of thick, branched underground stems. Its yellow-orange rhizomes provide turmeric, used as a culinary spice and food colouring; they also supply dyes for cloth and cosmetics. The leaves can be used to wrap and flavour food. Pale flowers emerge between overlapping bracts. Plants are propagated by dividing the rhizomes, rather than by seed. It has become naturalized in teak forests in eastern Java, Indonesia. Photographed in Florida.