Curry leaf

A fast-growing deciduous shrub or small tree with deep roots and scented leaves. The leaves are an important ingredient in curry in South India and Sri Lanka.
Watercolour of a curry leaf plant with a flower, c.1828.
Curry at home
Try growing curry leaf on your window sill. Cuttings can be made from leaf stems.
The missing ingredient
Curry leaves are an essential ingredient in South Indian dishes, but British curry powder does not contain curry leaf. Ingredients it may include are chilli peppers, cumin, corainder seeds, black pepper and dried ginger.
Healing plant
Curry leaf is used in South Asian traditional medicine to treat the digestive system, skin conditions and diabetes. Its anti-diabetic properties are supported by scientific research.
On the move
Together with South Indian immigrants, curry leaves reached Malaysia, South Africa and Réunion island. Today it is cultivated all over South and Southeast Asia.