Carum

( KAR - um )

At-A-Glance Information

This genus of flowering plants is native to temperate areas of Africa and Europe. The most widely recognized and cultivated species in the genus is the producer of Caraway seeds, which are widely used as a spice. Grow these delicate plants in mixed beds or borders, in herb or potager gardens, or as part of pollinator gardens.

Carum Species and Varietals

The genus Carum is the type genus member of the plant family Apiaceae, and includes sixteen distinct species. The best growing zones for Carum plants are A1 and 1-26. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

​Carum carvi (Caraway, Meridian Fennel, Persian Cumin)
These biennial plants are native to western Asia, Europe and North Africa. Like many other species in the Carrot family, these plants produce finely divided, feathery green leaves. Flowering stems reach up to 2 feet tall, and are topped with small white or pink flowers in summertime (typically June through July).

Caring for Carum



Harvesting Carum
Caraway seeds, produced by the species Carum carvi, are typically used whole, and have an anise-like flavor and aroma. It is used to spice breads (especially rye bread) and other baked goods. It is also used to flavor desserts, casseroles and liquors. Leaves can be added to soups, stews, and salads, and are used similar to parsley. The root of the Carum carvi plant is sometimes consumed as a wintertime root vegetable in some places, similar to Parsnip. Harvesting Caraway seeds is simple enough; all that is required is for growers to remove seed heads at the height of maturity, which typically happens around late summertime. They can be stored in an airtight container away from light, and can stay fresh anywhere between six months and a year.

Propagation

Bixia orellana seed pods are bright red.
When seeds are mature, seed pods will open.

Problems and Pests

Carum plants are typically pest and disease free. For more information on common garden problems, including how to correct them, see the following links.
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Gallery

Bixia seeds, also called Annatto seeds.
These seeds can be turned into a powder that is used in cooking to impart bright red color.
These trees and shrubs produce delicate green leaves, pink flowers, and red seed pods.

Videos

All about Lipstick Trees.
How to care for a Lipstick Tree in the garden.

Resources

All About Caraway Seeds
Wikipedia: Carum
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