A dye or a spice obtained from the plant Curcuma longa, which belongs to the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). It is a stout perennial with short stem, tufted leaves, and short, thick rhizomes which contain the colorful condiment. As a natural dye, turmeric is orange-red or reddish brown, but it changes color in the presence of acids or bases. As a spice, turmeric has a decidedly musky odor and a pungent, bitter taste. It is an important item in curry and is used to flavor and color butter, cheese, pickles, and other food.