Katsumadai Shell Ginger

Botanical Name: Alpinia katsumadai

Native Region/Environment: Believed to originate in China; naturalized to tropical forests throughout Asia

Sun/Light: Prefers Partial shade to partial sun

Temperature: Indoor house plant, USDA Hardiness Zones 8-12, with winter protection in colder zones.

Water: Consistently moist but not soggy; frequent heavy misting or light watering.

Soil: Loose, rich, moist 

Growth Pattern: Rhizome clumping ginger, spreads out from base rhizome

Mature Size: In native habitat may grow to 8' but in naturalized gardens or pots it is more likely to achieve 4'-6' heights.  The flower stalk grows almost a foot in length holding several dozen individual flowers. 

Attributes: Flashy shell ginger with pinky-cream flowers on an erect stalk up to 5' tall, with brilliantly flashy orange and yellow interiors. The plant grows with narrow, upright sheath leaves in a tight cluster and produces pungent, spicy speed pods traditionally used in Chinese medicine. 

Attractor: Pollinators

Pot: 3.5" or 4"