Cardamom variety · Released variety
IISR Avinash
Also known as IISR Avinash; RR1
Appangala, Kodagu, Karnataka (Cardamom Research Centre, IISR) · Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR), Cardamom Research Centre, Appangala · 2000s
Developed through clonal selection specifically for rhizome rot (Pythium, Rhizoctonia) resistance. High-yielding with dark green capsules of excellent quality. Critical for rhizome-rot-prone areas.
Key facts
| Type | Released variety |
|---|---|
| Origin | Appangala, Kodagu, Karnataka (Cardamom Research Centre, IISR) |
| Breeder / source | Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR), Cardamom Research Centre, Appangala |
| Year released | 2000s |
| Parentage | Clonal selection for rhizome rot resistance |
| Yield | reported around 643–979 kg dry/ha; potential up to 1,483 kg/ha |
| Tolerance | Rhizome rot-resistant; moderate disease tolerance; 600–1200 m |
| Distinctive features | Dark green bold capsules, good quality, vigorous growth |
| Grown in | Karnataka (Kodagu), Kerala cardamom tracts; 600–1200 m, rhizome-rot-prone areas |
| Also known as | IISR Avinash; RR1 |
Figures are indicative, compiled from public agricultural sources (ICAR institutes, State Agricultural Universities, the Spices Board and the National Innovation Foundation) and vary with soil, season and management. Confirm with your local package of practices.
IISR Avinash in detail
A clonal selection from Appangala bred for resistance to rhizome rot — the disease that has long limited cardamom in valley plantings.
Origin & story
Developed through clonal selection at the Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR) Cardamom Research Centre in Appangala, Kodagu, Karnataka. It carries the designation RR1, reflecting its rhizome-rot-resistance breeding goal. Research documentation dates to the 2000s.
How it grows
Suited to valley cultivation at 2.5 x 2 m spacing, with about 115 days from flowering to mature dry capsules. Recommended for rhizome-rot-infested areas of Karnataka and Wynad. Average yield 847 kg dry capsules/ha; potential under good management around 1,483 kg/ha. Vigorous plant, roughly 228 cm tall with about 46 tillers per clump.
Quality & character
Dark green bold capsules. Essential oil around 6.7%, with α-terpinyl acetate (about 34.6%) higher than cineole (about 30.4%) — shifting the aroma toward the sweeter, fruity-floral end. Tolerant of shoot, panicle, and capsule borers.
Why it matters to buyers
Bred for resistance to Pythium vexans and Rhizoctonia solani rhizome rot, making it a practical choice where the disease has affected older plantings. The higher terpinyl acetate content gives a sweeter flavour profile within the cardamom range.
About cardamom
In Kerala's rolling spice gardens, cardamom isn't just one plant—it's three distinct botanical types, each with its own character. The Malabar type, with flowers drooping down like a skirt, thrives in the softer elevations of 600–1200 metres. Mysore stands tall and erect, reaching its best between 900–1200 metres on the wind-swept heights. And Vazhukka, a…
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