Aframomum daniellii

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  • Herbarium No: UPH NO. 590
  • Aframomum daniellii
  • (Hook.f.) K.Schum.
  • Botanical Name/Scientific Name: Aframomum daniellii
  • Genus: Aframomum
  • Synonym: Cardamomum daniellii (Hook.f.) Kuntze
  • Common/Local Name(s): African cardamom
  • Family: Zingaberaceae
  • Botanical Description: Aframomum daniellii typically grows as a clumping herb with leafy stems reaching up to 2 meters (about 6 feet) in height. The plant features pseudostems formed by tightly wrapped leaf sheaths, similar to those seen in ginger and other related plants. The leaves of Aframomum daniellii are lanceolate, long, and narrow, measuring up to 60 cm (24 inches) in length. They are arranged alternately along the stem and have a smooth, glossy texture. They are typically bright green, adding to the lush appearance of the plant. The flowers emerge directly from the base of the plant, near the ground, on short, separate stalks that arise from the rhizome. Color and Shape: The flowers are typically white to pale yellow, sometimes with purple or red speckles, and are enclosed in large, colorful bracts which may be red or yellow. These bracts are striking and ornamental. The fruit is a capsule that is roughly triangular in shape. When mature, the fruit turns from green to a bright red, making it quite conspicuous. Each fruit contains numerous small, aromatic seeds. The seeds are small, and their flavor and aroma are reminiscent of cardamom, though with a more intense citrus note.
  • Flowering/Fruiting: Flowers from April to October. Fruits from September to December.
  • Plant Uses: Culinary Uses(Spice & Beverages), Medicinal Uses (Traditional Medicine & Anti-inflammatory) and Ornamental Plant
  • Origin: Introduced
  • Locality: Uko Efe Adoni River State
  • Habit: Herb
  • Mode: Wild

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