Growing Turmeric in Southern CA Zone 9b

This January I decided to grow turmeric for the first time down in southern California where we live, zone 9b. Two rhizomes were planted in January, each about 3 inches long. In March or April we finally saw some shoots sprouting, it really is a test of patience if you want to grow it.

They really took off in the summer, when I moved them to have morning sun and afternoon shade. The long wait was worth it, this November I finally harvested the tubers and was very happy to find several healthy rhizomes. Pictures of the harvest and the pot where I grew them are below.

The taste is markedly fresher than dried or powdered turmeric. The flesh is very firm and the skin was not wrinkled. When used to make tea, there is no bitterness and the pure turmeric flavor really comes through.