Turmeric variety · Released variety
IISR Prathibha
Also known as Acc. 361
ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode (IISR Calicut), Kerala · Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR), ICAR · 1996
High curcumin content and oleoresin. Resistance to root-knot nematodes. Versatile cultivation across India. One of only two seedling-selected varieties in the world (alongside IISR Prabha).
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 | 39.12 tonnes/ha fresh rhizomes reported |
| Tolerance | Resistant to root-knot nematodes; moderate tolerance to major pests and diseases |
| Distinctive features | Plump, bold rhizomes; longer crop duration of 225 days; good quality; consistent performance |
| Grown in | Pan-India cultivation; Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka |
| Also known as | Acc. 361 |
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 Prathibha in detail
IISR Prathibha is a 225-day turmeric developed through open-pollinated progeny selection from the germplasm of India's premier spice research institute, giving plump rhizomes with high curcumin and resistance to root-knot nematode.
Origin & story
Released by the Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode (IISR), in 1996, Prathibha was developed through open-pollinated progeny selection from the institute's turmeric germplasm. Along with IISR Prabha, it is described as one of only two seedling-selected turmeric varieties in the world, since most commercial turmerics are propagated vegetatively rather than from seed.
How it grows
Prathibha matures in about 225 days under rainfed conditions and yields an average of 39.12 tonnes of fresh rhizomes per hectare, with dry recovery reported between 18.5 and 18.9 per cent. Field reports from Wayanad district in Kerala document reliable performance, with growers adopting the production package recommended by IISR, including the institute's targeted-yield fertilizer recommendations.
Quality & character
Rhizomes are notably plump and bold, with a reddish-yellow colour and reddish-brown scales. Curcumin is reported at around 6.25–6.52 per cent (and up to 6–7 per cent under Kerala conditions), oleoresin at 16.2 per cent, and essential oil at about 6.2 per cent.
Why it matters to buyers
Processors and extract makers value Prathibha for its high curcumin and oleoresin. Demand for seed rhizomes is reported to be strong, and growers in Andhra Pradesh and Kerala have taken it to commercial acreage. Its resistance to root-knot nematode can help reduce crop loss where that pest is a problem.
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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