This week, the question was: What is this crop being grown on John’s Island, SC?
This is turmeric. This plant is grown for its swollen roots (rhizomes) which will be dug and harvested in the fall.
Turmeric is a close relative of ginger that is a traditionally popular ingredient in Asian, African, and Caribbean dishes. The US is a large importer of turmeric, though there is a small amount of cultivation in the US also. The turmeric commonly seen in the spice section of the grocery store is made of dried and ground rhizomes. Click here to read about growing turmeric.
The South Carolina Grower 