Family: Zingiberaceae
High Risk Traits:
- Aframomum melegueta is a species in the ginger family, Zingiberaceae, and closely related to cardamom. Its seeds are used as a spice (ground or whole); it imparts a pungent, black-pepper-like flavor with hints of citrus. It is also known as grains of paradise. Its exact native range is unknown, but it probably originates from, and is widely cultivated or naturalized, from Guinea to central Democratic Republic of the Congo. It has also been introduced and cultivated in other regions of the tropics but although naturalized, has not been reported to have negative impacts within its introduced range.
- Thrives and spreads in regions with tropical climates.
- Reported to be introduced and naturalized outside its native range, for example East Africa (Burundi and Uganda), the Caribbean (Martinique and Trinidad and Tobago) and Latin America (French Guiana and Guyana).
- Tolerates many soil types.
- Reproduces by seeds and vegetatively by rhizomes.
- Reaches maturity in 2-3 years from seed.
- Seeds dispersed by primates and elephants within its native range, as well as through intentional cultivation.
- Produces 300-500 seeds per capsule.
- Seed longevity unknown.
- Effectiveness of chemical or mechanical control methods unknown.
Low Risk Traits:
- No reports of negative impacts within its native or introduced range.
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
- Valued as a spice plant.
- Non-toxic
- Although tolerant of light shade, dense shade may inhibit spread and result in reduced longevity of plants.
