Evaluation of selected promising land races of small cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton) in South India

Small cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton.), often referred to as the 'queen of spices' is believed have originated in moist evergreen forests Western Ghats South India. The present study was conducted at Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Myladumpara, Idukki Dt. Kerala. Different farmer's varieties, nine landraces viz., Njallani Green Gold, Thiruthali, Panikulangara Bold No.1, Wonder Cardamom, Elarajan, Arjun, Pappalu, PNS Vaigai, Pachaikkai and ICRI-5 control were evaluated tract District. selected genotypes field for three consecutive years. data on growth yield recorded, pooled analyzed. From analysis, it found that genotype Gold performed well compared other varieties with respect (1271.80 kg/ha) followed by No.1 (1134.67 more tillers (74.46) same clone also. plant height significantly higher Elarajan (316.24 cm), (312.45 cm). number leaves greater (16.72), (16.43). More vegetative buds observed Pappalu Cardamom. Panicles per clump Thiruthali (47.98), (46.59). Racemes panicle (26.57), (26.19). capsules racemes (9.59) (8.59). results pointed out each trial differs from another characters studied. findings could be used further breeding studies small cardamom.