Cardamom variety · Farmer selection
Thiruthali
Also known as Thirumali (alternative spelling)
Santhampara, Idukki, Kerala · T.P. Joseph · 2000
Exceptional yield (4-6 kg dry/plant, 2000-3000 kg/ha) with medium-bold parrot green capsules commanding premium prices. High resistance to stem borers, root grubs, and decay. Panicles of 50-60 racemes with 15-20 capsules each make it distinctive among farmer selections.
Key facts
| Type | Farmer selection |
|---|---|
| Origin | Santhampara, Idukki, Kerala |
| Breeder / source | T.P. Joseph |
| Year released | 2000 |
| Parentage | Cross of Njallani (high-yielding) x Vazhukka x Vulga (Malabar type); selected from 600 seedlings for prolific flowering |
| Yield | 4-6 kg dry/plant; 2000-3000 kg/ha (reported) |
| Tolerance | Stem borer, root grub, decay; high pest and disease resistance |
| Distinctive features | Medium-bold parrot green capsules; 50-60 racemes per panicle; 15-20 capsules per raceme |
| Grown in | Santhampara, Idukki |
| Also known as | Thirumali (alternative spelling) |
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.
Thiruthali in detail
A farmer-developed high-yielder from Idukki, Kerala, Thiruthali combines well-above-average yields with reliable pest resistance and lower input demand.
Origin & story
Developed by T.P. Joseph of Santhampara, Idukki, Kerala, with stabilisation work beginning around 2000. The variety and its breeder were recognised with the 6th National Grassroots Innovation Award (2012) by the National Innovation Foundation-India, and Joseph also received recognition from All India Radio and Doordarshan (2009). He has distributed more than 200,000 seedlings to about 1,000 farmers across Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
How it grows
Suited to Idukki's upland conditions. Produces 4-6 kg dried cardamom per plant, well above standard varieties. Field yields are reported at 2,000-3,000 kg per acre at a 22% curing ratio. The variety shows resistance to stem borers, root grubs and decay. It is reported to need less pesticide and fertiliser than competing varieties, reducing production costs by around 40 percent, which is why small and medium farmers favour it.
Quality & character
Medium-bold parrot green capsules command premium prices. Panicles bear 50-60 racemes, each carrying 15-20 capsules, and long panicles can reach about 1.8 metres (6 feet). Plants develop 60-80 productive tillers per clump. The fibrous stem is associated with its pest tolerance.
Why it matters to buyers
The bold pod size and consistent green colour appeal to traders and exporters familiar with Malabar-type cardamom. The variety has spread to over 2,000 acres across Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, reflecting adoption by farmers seeking lower input costs alongside volume.
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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