Kitchen StapleMurraya koenigii · Rutaceae (Citrus family)
Desi Kadhi Patta
The classic full-sized curry leaf tree with intensely aromatic leaves, the same kadhi patta used in kitchens across India. Hardy, long lived and generous once established.
Choose your variety (2 available)
The free care manual is available after you sign in. It takes less than a minute.
Light
●●●●○
Full sun. Needs 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight for dense, aromatic foliage.
Watering
Every 2 to 3 days in summer, weekly in winter. Let the topsoil dry between waterings.
About Curry Leaf
Curry leaf is the soul of Indian tadka. A few fresh leaves sizzled in hot oil transform dals, sambar, poha and curries in a way dried leaves never can. This slow and steady aromatic tree grows happily in a large pot, giving you fresh, pesticide free kadhi patta for decades.
Botanical name
Murraya koenigii
Family
Rutaceae (Citrus family)
Origin
Indian subcontinent, wild in the foothills and forests of India
Local names
Kadhi Patta, Curry Patta, Meetha Neem, Karivepaku, Kadipatta
Uses
- ✓Fresh kadhi patta for tadka in dal, kadhi, sambar and poha
- ✓Chutneys and podi (curry leaf gunpowder)
- ✓Traditional hair oil infusions
- ✓Rich in iron and antioxidants, valued in home remedies
Watering Guide
Every 2 to 3 days in summer, weekly in winter. Let the topsoil dry between waterings.
- •Water deeply but only when the top 3 to 4 cm of soil is dry
- •Reduce watering sharply in winter when the plant rests and may shed leaves
- •Yellowing leaves with wet soil means overwatering
- •Ensure the pot drains freely, curry leaf hates soggy roots
Soil Mix Recipe
- Garden soil2 parts
- Compost or cow dung manure1 part
- Coarse sand1 part for drainage
Best Practices
- ★Pinch the growing tip when young to encourage a bushy, multi-branched plant
- ★Feed diluted buttermilk or compost tea monthly in the growing season
- ★Do not panic at winter leaf drop, it flushes back in spring
- ★Harvest whole leaflet sprigs rather than single leaves to trigger regrowth
Growth Journey
Watch your Curry Leaf grow, from day one to full glory
Establishing
Month 1 to 2
Height: 20 to 30 cm
Branching out
Month 3 to 6
Height: 40 to 60 cm
Regular harvest
Month 8 to 12
Height: 80 to 120 cm
Mature bush
Year 2+
Height: 1.5 to 2.5 m
The Complete Curry Leaf Care Manual
Everything on this page and more, in a beautiful PDF you can keep on your phone: care calendar, troubleshooting, growth stages and expert tips for every variety.