Green Cardamom (Choti Elaichi)
Malabar Cardamom
Native to Kerala (Western Ghats).
Slightly smaller in size, with a natural green to pale green color.
Strong aroma but less bold than Mysore variety.
Preferred for cooking and masala blends.
Mysore Cardamom
Grown in Karnataka.
Larger in size with a deep green color.
Contains higher oil content (cineol & limonene), giving a stronger flavor.
Premium quality, often exported.
Vazhukka Cardamom
Hybrid variety between Malabar and Mysore.
Medium size, good green color, strong aroma.
Popular among farmers due to high yield and balanced qualities.
Grades of Green Cardamom (by Size & Quality)
Alleppey Green Extra Bold (AGEB) – Large pods, 8 mm+ size, deep green, high aroma.
Alleppey Green Bold (AGB) – Medium-large pods, 6.5–7.5 mm.
Alleppey Green Superior (AGS) – Smaller pods but still good aroma.
AG/AGB/AGS grades are often used in the export market.