Curcuma longa is native to South Asia, with its strongest historical and modern cultivation centered in India. This perennial herb belongs to the ginger group and is primarily recognized for its underground rhizomes, which are harvested for their culinary and medicinal value. The plant reaches up to three feet in height and produces a distinctive floral display with bracts ranging from green to reddish hues, enclosing yellow tubular flowers. The rhizomes contain curcumin, a compound widely studied for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for treating digestive issues, skin conditions, and joint problems. Turmeric has been used for centuries as a natural dye due to its intense yellow pigment, which historically served as a textile colorant. In addition to its medicinal and cultural roles, turmeric remains an essential spice in cooking, particularly in curries, and is cultivated across tropical Asia, with India as the leading global producer. Photographed in Florida.