Turmeric variety · Released variety
IISR Prabha
Also known as Acc. 360
ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode (IISR Calicut), Kerala · Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR), ICAR · 1996
First turmeric variety in the world developed through true seedling selection, alongside IISR Prathibha. Superior curcumin (6.52%) and oleoresin (15.0%) content, surpassing Alleppey. Excellent dry recovery at 19.5%.
Key facts
| Type | Released variety |
|---|---|
| Origin | ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode (IISR Calicut), Kerala |
| Breeder / source | Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR), ICAR |
| Year released | 1996 |
| Parentage | Open-pollinated progeny selection (true turmeric seedling selection) |
| Yield | 37 tonnes/ha fresh rhizomes under rainfed conditions |
| Tolerance | Field tolerance to major pests and diseases; suitable for diverse climates |
| Distinctive features | Plump, bold rhizomes; matures in 205 days; dry recovery 19.5%; essential oil 6.5% |
| Grown in | Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu |
| Also known as | Acc. 360 |
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 Prabha in detail
IISR Prabha breaks the turmeric mould: released in 1996 as the world's first turmeric variety bred through true seedling selection, it delivers curcumin at 6.52% and oleoresin at 15%, leaving Alleppey behind.
Origin & story
IISR Prabha (Acc. 360) emerged from the Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode, in 1996, developed through open-pollinated progeny selection. It was released alongside IISR Prathibha (Acc. 361) as the first turmeric varieties in the world to be created through true seedling selection, marking a departure from the vegetative propagation that defines most turmeric cultivation.
How it grows
Matures in around 205 days, delivering roughly 37 tonnes of fresh rhizomes per hectare. Dry recovery stands at 19.5%, a strong figure for processing. The variety has shown resistance to leaf blotch disease caused by Taphrina maculans in screening trials, an advantage in humid zones where this fungal infection cuts yields.
Quality & character
Plump, reddish-yellow rhizomes with green aerial shoots reaching about 44 cm. Each clump produces around 2 tillers and roughly 11.5 leaves. Curcumin 6.52% and oleoresin 15.0% both surpass Alleppey. Dry recovery of 19.5% provides solid processing yield.
Why it matters to buyers
For spice traders and processors, the standout metric is oleoresin at 15%, a premium for colour and flavour extraction. Curcumin at 6.52% attracts the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical trade. Dry recovery of 19.5% means less waste. Reported resistance to leaf blotch can reduce crop loss in rainy seasons, helping keep supply reliable. The seedling-derived genetics offer the consistency growers prize.
About turmeric
India grows more turmeric than any country on earth—over 30 varieties with distinct flavours, curcumin profiles, and growing regions. From the cool heights of Meghalaya's Jaintia Hills to Tamil Nadu's red soil and Maharashtra's famous Sangli market, each region gives its turmeric a signature identity. Whether you're a farmer choosing planting material, a…
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