Small cardamom is a sought after spice in the Middle East market. It is cultivated in Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. India is the second largest producer of small cardamom.In organic cultivation of cardamom, the methods to be followed should conform to the standards laid down for the purpose.Cardamom combines an exotic aroma with luxurious flavour, giving it the well-deserved nickname 'queen of spices'. Kumily, near Munnar, boasts of the largest cardamom market in the world. A perennial and herbaceous plant, cardamom comes in three varieties; Malabar, Mysore and Vazuka. As the name indicates, Malabar is a native variety found in Kerala.The other Indian states that grow cardamom (small) are Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Cardamom plays a very distinct role in Kerala cuisine. No payasam (a sweet dish often served during festivals and special occasions) is complete without the mouth-watering taste and aroma of cardamom. Cardamom and its powder form are used as flavouring agents around the world in everything from baked foods and confectionaries to savoury dishes.