Description
50 Seeds per pack
Cumin
Days to Maturity: Up to 120 Days
Sun Requirements: Full Sun
Botanical Name: (Cuminum cyminum)
A key ingredient in Mexican, Middle Eastern, Eastern European, and Mediterranean dishes, cumin is widely valued not just in the kitchen but also in the garden for its useful and ornamental qualities. Its feathery, fern-like leaves and soft white to pink umbels make it well-suited for an attractive herb garden or tucked into a flower bed, where its delicate foliage adds a quiet background.
Plants grow 12–20 inches tall and spread about 12–15 inches. After flowering, they set small, fragrant seeds that range from yellow-brown to deep brown or black depending on conditions. The plant prefers warm, sunny spots and handles drought well. Its flowers draw beneficial insects such as lacewings and ladybugs, making it a solid choice near pest-prone crops.
The seeds are used whole, roasted, fried in oil to bring out their aroma, or ground into powder. Young leaves can be picked for fresh use, while seeds are harvested at full maturity and dried for storage. ,Its flavor is earthy and pungent—stronger than caraway, adding a savory depth to dishes like curries, chili, hummus, and pickles.
Cumin has also been used traditionally to aid digestion, reduce nausea, and support respiratory health. Durable and useful, it remains a standard in the kitchen.
FAQ:
What is the historical or notable background of Cumin?
Cumin originated in Western Asia and has been cultivated since biblical times, making it one of the oldest known spices. used in ancient cultures for both its flavor and medicinal qualities, it remains a staple today.
What is the flavor of Cumin?
Cumin offers a bold, earthy, and pungent flavor that’s more intense than caraway. It adds a warm, savory depth to dishes and is essential in spice blends like curry powder and garam masala.
What does Cumin look like, and what are its growing habits?
Cumin grows as a compact, herbaceous annual reaching 12–20 inches tall with a spread of 12–15 inches. Its soft, fern-like foliage and small umbels of white to pink flowers give it a light, airy presence—perfect for blending into ornamental beds or herb gardens.
How is it until i can havest Cumin?
Cumin reaches maturity in up to 120 days, producing aromatic seeds once the flower heads dry and turn brown. You can also harvest the young, feathery leaves earlier in the season for fresh use in salads, soups, or garnishes.
When is the best time to plant Cumin?
Plant cumin in early spring after the last frost in warm, sunny locations. It prefers consistent warmth throughout its growing cycle and does best in climates with long, hot summers.
What are the common culinary uses of Cumin?
Cumin seeds can be used whole, roasted, fried in oil, or ground into powder. It’s a staple in dishes like chili, curries, hummus, and pickles, bringing out the flavor in both vegetarian and meat-based recipes.
What’s the best way to store Cumin after harvest?
After drying the seeds, store them in an airtight container away from light and heat. Whole seeds retain their flavor longer, but ground cumin should be used within a few months for peak potency.
What nutrients or health benefits does Cumin provide?
Cumin is traditionally known for supporting digestion, easing nausea, and aiding respiratory health. It also contains iron and antioxidants, making it a nutritious spice addition to the diet.
Does Cumin offer any benefits in the garden besides its culinary use?
Yes, cumin’s flowers attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which help control garden pests. Its delicate appearance also makes it a charming addition to ornamental beds.
Miranda Paulick-Reigel (verified owner) –
5 star!
Regina Harris (verified owner) –