Where does large cardamom (badi elaichi) grow and how is it different from small cardamom?

Large cardamom (Amomum subulatum), the badi elaichi, is a different crop from small green cardamom. It grows in the cool moist hills of the Eastern Himalaya, mainly Sikkim, Darjeeling and parts of the Northeast, usually under tree shade like Himalayan alder along stream banks at higher altitude. The capsules are big and brown and have a smoky flavour because they are traditionally cured with heat and wood smoke. Small cardamom is the green one from the Western Ghats and is cured to keep a green colour. Large cardamom suits agroforestry on hill slopes and gives good shade tolerance. For your specific slope and altitude, confirm planting and the recommended alder shade system with your KVK or the Spices Board regional office.