What's the Difference Between Curry Tree and Curry Plant

Curry Tree (left) Curry Plant (right)

 What is the Difference Between Curry Tree and Curry Plant?

There are two popular plants known by the common name “curry - tree/plant,” which has resulted in some problems identifying them. You can see from the photo above that they are very different species. Both can smell somewhat like Indian curry, which explains the confusion. One of these plants can be used in curry preparation (Curry Tree, Murraya koenigii), while the other is more popular as a decorative or medicinal plant (Curry Plant, Helichrysum italicum). Here’s what you need to know about the botanical and practical difference between curry tree and curry plant.

The Universe of Curry Is More Than a Single Curry Plant Variety

There are many different curries around the world. They take advantage of the unique ingredients available across cultures and climates, and provide a wide range of complex and memorable flavors. Neither of the following plants are “curry” as we know it. Curry is typically a blend of multiple herbs and spices. Curry tree and curry plant mimic the aromas of some Indian curries, which has given them the popular name of “curry” over time. This isn’t unusual. Many plants have more than one popular and even botanical name associated with them, and one popular name can refer to a number of different plant.

These two plants are both interesting and useful in their own unique ways, but quite different from one another. Here are photos and summaries that describe the differences between curry tree and curry plant:

Curry Tree Leaves

Buy the numbers, here are the differences between curry tree and curry plant:

Curry Tree - Murraya koenigii or Kaddi Patta

Curry tree has pinnately compound leaves with a strong curry aroma and citrusy flavor that makes them an aromatic choice for fresh in dishes. When cooked in oil, they are at their most flavorful and compliment vegetable, fish and seafood. 

Curry leaves are used in ayurvedic medicine to treat heart, infections and inflammation. The leaves are rich in vitamin C. They also have antimicrobial properties. Ongoing studies also suggest curry tree may benefit in the treatment of high cholesterol, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and more. Use caution when using curry leaf for medicinal purposes as it can have adverse side effects. 

Botanical Name: Murraya koenigii

Origin: Southeast Asia, India

Life Cycle: Perennial

Hardiness Zone: USDA Zones 10-11 (This plant is frost tender and does not respond well to placement in windy locations.

Sowing Recommendations: Prefers warm temperatures, propagate through seeds or stem cuttings. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in moist, well-draining soil at around 70°F (21°C). (Remove the husks from the seeds before planting.)

Days to Germination: 4 to 6 weeks 

Soil Requirements: Well-draining, rich soil, slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0)

Moisture and Humidity: Prefers regular watering, especially during hot weather. Does well in moderate humidity.

Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade.

Spacing: 6 to10 feet apart

Days to Maturity: 3 to 4 years

Height at Maturity: 10 to 15 feet 

Spread: 4 to 12 feet

Pests and Diseases: Watch for mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, scale, and fungal diseases.

Uses and Benefits: Leaves are used fresh or dried for curries and other dishes.  Also has medicinal properties.

History: Cultivated in India for centuries for its culinary and medicinal uses.

Other Factors: Slow-growing tree. It can be cultivated in a pot and relocated indoors to overwinter.

Common Names: Also known as ‘sweet neem’ in India, kadi patta

Yellow Blossoms of Curry Plant

Curry Plant  - Helichrysum italicum

With narrow, grey leaves that can resemble lavender, curry plant produces long-lasting, yellow blossoms with a sweet, rich curry scent.

Botanical Name: Helichrysum italicum or Helichrysum angustifolium (You'll likely find it referred to as both.)

Origin: Mediterranean region, particularly Turkey

Life Cycle: Perennial herb, though it can be cultivated as an annual in colder climates.

Hardiness Zone: USDA Zones 7-10 (It is somewhat more cold tolerant than the Curry Tree)

Sowing Recommendations: Prefers warm temperatures. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil at around 70°F (21°C). You can also propagate via stem cuttings.

Days to Germination: 7 to 14 weeks

Soil Requirements: Well-draining, moderately rich soil. Can tolerate poor soil and some drought conditions.

Moisture and Humidity: Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Does well in moderate humidity.

Light Requirements: Full sun for best growth and fragrance.

Spacing: 12 to 18 inches apart

Days to Maturity: Reaches full size within 1 to 2 years.

Height at Maturity: 24 to 48 inches tall

Pests and Diseases: Relatively pest and disease resistant. Susceptible to powdery mildew in poorly ventilated areas.

Uses and Benefits:

• Ornamental: Grown for its attractive silvery foliage and fragrant leaves.
• Dried flowers: Dried for potpourri or everlasting arrangements.

History: Cultivated in the Mediterranean for centuries and prized for its and fragrant leaves and yellow “everlasting” flowers.

Other Factors: Easy to grow and low maintenance. Deer resistant. 

Common Names: Italian strawflower, Immortelle, Murella

When purchasing the fresh or dried plants or seeds of curry tree or curry plant, play it safe and refer to the plant you want by it's botanical and not it's common name. That way you'll always know the difference and understand what you're buying.

Now that you know more about these two unique plants, please explore my articles: 

How to Grow Curry Plant

Try Curry Plant Tea for Colds