Mix variegated ginger with banana plants, castor bean (Ricinus communis) and elephant ears for an exotic foliage garden. Grow variegated ginger outdoors in rich, moist soil with lots of organic matter in full sun to part shade. Wait until the threat of frost has passed to move containers outside or to plant in the ground.
What plants look good with Ginger?
These plants are related to ginger and share similar growth requirements. Other plants to use are semi tropical to tropical flowering plants that will create a crazy quilt of color and enhance the lovely ginger blooms. Try calla and canna.
What is the variegated ginger plant?
The variegated ginger (Alpinia zerumbet), also known as shell ginger, is grown in the garden in mild winter locations and as a container plant in colder climates. Native to Polynesia and eastern Asia, variegated ginger is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 8a through 11.
What to do with variegated ginger?
Landscape uses for variegated ginger 1 single yard specimen 2 center of a circular drive 3 large accent for a mixed bed 4 backdrop for smaller plants 5 in front of tall green shrubs 6 corner-of-the-house accent 7 pool cage plant (for a large bed) 8 surrounding a palm tree 9 understory plant among large trees More ...
How do you grow variegated ginger?
Like most tropical plants, it prefers rich, moist, slightly acidic soil and light shade in all except cool coastal climates. While variegated ginger is a lovely specimen plant, it's better grown in a grouping of companion plants that set off its variegated foliage and sweetly scented, shell-shaped flowers.
How far apart should I plant variegated ginger?
4 to 5 feet apartPlant spacing Place them 4 to 5 feet apart and allow at least 4 feet between a ginger and the nearest shrub. If planting around a palm, come out about 3 feet. Come out from the house 3 feet, and in from walks and drives 5 feet if you can. Ginger will grow in a large container.
Does variegated ginger like sun or shade?
Grow variegated ginger outdoors in rich, moist soil with lots of organic matter in full sun to part shade. Wait until the threat of frost has passed to move containers outside or to plant in the ground.
Does variegated ginger grow fast?
Variegated Shell Ginger will grow to be about 4 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 4 feet. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 20 years. This plant does best in full sun to partial shade.
Is variegated ginger invasive?
You may plant in partial sun or full shade, and well-drained soil. It is a non-invasive exotic with little or no pests or diseases. New growth is underneath from rhizomes, so you can get large areas amassing.
Does ginger plant spread?
The lovely thing you'll realize as you tend this flavorful delight is that it loves to spread. Once your first pot or backyard rhizome swells in size and pushes up multiple stalks, sometimes even to the point of busting out of its container, you'll know it's time to start some new ginger.
Are ginger plants poisonous to dogs?
Ginger is safe for dogs to eat in small quantities and can provide a number of health benefits. Fresh ginger root is packed with antioxidants and contains anti-inflammatory properties that can promote healthy blood circulation, ease bloating, and increase heart health.
How do you take care of variegated ginger?
Variegated Shell Ginger Watering and Feeding During its growing season, this plant requires plenty of water. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, but also ensure it is not soggy constantly. It is not a drought-tolerant plant and will suffer greatly without proper irrigation, especially during the summer season.
Can you prune variegated ginger?
Variegated ginger only blooms from old growth, so avoid pruning off more than necessary. Cut off the flower stalks at the base of the plant where they emerge after blooming to encourage further blooming. Trim off any dying or dead leaves that have yellowed or browned.
How tall does variegated ginger get?
4 to 7 ft. tallAlpinia zerumbet 'Variegata'Botanical Pronunciational-PIN-ee-uh ZER-um-bet var-ee-GAY-tuhAverage Size at MaturityQuickly forms foliage clumps 4 to 7 ft. tall, 4 ft. wide.Bloom TimeSpringDeciduous/ EvergreenHerbaceousFlower AttributeFragrant, Showy Flowers12 more rows
Is variegated ginger Evergreen?
Variegated ginger is an evergreen tropical perennial herb that grows from a fleshy, horizontal stem called a rhizome. The leaves are long lances, waxy and and thin and colored deep green with irregular but attractive stripes of yellow.
How do you fertilize variegated ginger?
Feed variegated shell ginger plants monthly during spring and summer, using a general purpose liquid fertilizer. For containerized plants, dilute the fertilizer to half of the strength indicated on the package label. Place variegated shell ginger plants grown as houseplants in bright sunlight, and keep the soil moist.
Will variegated ginger come back after freezing?
A: Chances are good they'll return from the rhizomes, especially if mulched. Cut the stalks down now if you want. This is easier than trying to remove dead stalks after new shoots are popping up in mid to late spring.
How much sunlight does variegated ginger?
Variegated ginger is not picky when it comes to its location in the garden -- it can grow in areas that provide at least six hours of sun and bright light throughout the day but can also thrive in partial shady areas of the garden. Well-draining, moist, rich soil is needed to grow this East Asia native.
Does ginger grow well in shade?
Ginger plants grow best in warm, humid locations. They prefer part shade with 2-5 hours of dappled sunlight each day. They cannot tolerate locations with strong winds or poorly draining soil.
Do gingers like full sun?
If you're looking for a shade loving plant, look no further than a Ginger. They're happy to grow in full shade and they'll also take up to 85 to 90% sun. They like a friable soil but they'll tolerate many different kinds of soils.
Is variegated ginger Evergreen?
Variegated ginger is an evergreen tropical perennial herb that grows from a fleshy, horizontal stem called a rhizome. The leaves are long lances, waxy and and thin and colored deep green with irregular but attractive stripes of yellow.
What is a ginger plant?
Variegated ginger - sometimes called "shell ginger" - dominates the tropical shade garden with striped green and yellow leaves and a wide-spreading habit. This handsome and impressive plant takes center stage anywhere it's planted. It works as a surround for trees or palms, a filler for a corner bed, or an anchor plant for a mixed garden.
What is shell ginger?
The name shell ginger refers to the flowers that appear (infrequently) in warm weather, looking like strands of tiny white seashells. The flowers are lightly fragrant and the leaves themselves have a tangy fresh aroma.
How big does ginger grow?
Plant specs. Variegated ginger is a moderate grower that can reach heights of 3 to 6 feet, and grows 5 to 8 feet wide. These are moderately salt-tolerant plants that do best in part sun to part shade. Too much sun will burn the leaves and the leaves will fold up to try to protect themselves from the blast of sunshine.
How tall does butterfly ginger grow?
Butterfly ginger is a green-leaved plant that only grows about 3 feet tall, prefers part shade, and should be grown near the lanai or porch so you can appreciate the wonderful smell of the blossoms.
Can ginger be grown in full sun?
The flowers are lightly fragrant and the leaves themselves have a tangy fresh aroma. These plants are often seen growing in flat-out full sun but they prefer a bit of afternoon shade to keep the leaves from browning. You can trim off the tallest stalks to keep this ginger a bit lower in size.
How to grow variegated ginger?
Grow variegated ginger outdoors in rich, moist soil with lots of organic matter in full sun to part shade. Wait until the threat of frost has passed to move containers outside or to plant in the ground. Variegated shell ginger in a seasonal container.
What is shell ginger?
Variegated Shell Ginger, Alpinia zerumbet. ‘Variegata’. Written by susan.mahr. Variegated shell ginger, Alpinia zerumbet ‘Variegata’. Alpinia zerumbet is a tender herbaceous perennial in the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) grown throughout the world for its attractive flowers and foliage. This plant native to open woodlands ...
How to store ginger rhizomes?
If keeping over the winter, they should be lifted after the first frost and stored in a dry area around 55ºF. Combine variegated shell ginger with other plants with dark foliage for a dramatic effect.
Why are my shell ginger leaves turning brown?
The leaves will brown on the edges if it does not have adequate moisture or gets too cold. Plants can be divided if they get too large for the container. Shell ginger is usually available as potted plants, but sometimes can be purchased as bare rhizomes (which should be planted about an inch below the soil surface).
Is shell ginger hard to grow?
Variegated shell ginger is widely used as a tough landscape in mild climates. Plants grow in upright clumps from heavy, fleshy rhizomes that look (and smell) like that of culinary ginger ( Zingiber officinale ). The rhizomes produce stout, slightly arching stems with evergreen leaves.
Where is the sage plant native to?
This plant native to open woodlands of tropical eastern Asia is frequently used as an annual foliage plant in colder climates, with a variegated cultivar native to India the most common type available in the Midwest. It is winter hardy in zones 8-10, although it may survive in zone 7 with winter protection.
Can shell ginger be grown in containers?
Variegated shell ginger can be grown in large containers as a houseplant or patio plant (alone or in mixed containers) for a tropical effect. It can be planted in the ground as a striking specimen plant, or in masses as a bright backdrop for other flowering plants.
What plants are related to ginger?
These might be galangal, turmeric, and cardamom. These plants are related to ginger and share similar growth requirements. Other plants to use are semi tropical to tropical flowering plants that will create a crazy quilt of color and enhance the lovely ginger blooms. Try calla and canna.
What plants should I plant in a ginger plot?
Perfect choices include: Kaffir lime. Chili peppers. Cilantro. Lemongrass. For plants like cilantro and chilies, make sure they are at the edge of the planting zone or where the most light penetrates.
How to harvest ginger?
It has numerous health benefits and thrives in humid, warm regions. Ginger is harvested by digging up the whole plant, so be sure to start numerous rhizomes to ensure a continuous supply of this delicious root.
What is companion planting?
Companion planting is a traditional practice where each plant serves a purpose in the garden and form relationships that assist each other. Ginger companion planting is not a common practice but even this spicy rooted plant can aid in the growth of other plants and be part of a culinary theme. “What can I plant with ginger,” you may ask.
Where does ginger come from?
Ginger originated in Southern Asian tropical rainforests and its native plant companions include hibiscus, palms, teak, and orchids. If you are in a moist, warm region, you can try any of these natural plant companions. The indigenous plants of ginger’s native region are naturals to plant in and around your ginger plot.
Can you plant ginger in the sun?
A better question to ask is what can’t you plant with ginger. The list will be shorter. Ginger thrives in deeply rich, loamy soil. The plant needs several hours of daylight but prefers morning light to scorching afternoon sun. It can also perform well in dappled light and makes an ideal companion plant under fruit and nut trees.
Can you use annual legumes under fruit trees?
Trees in the legume family are especially useful, as they fix nitrogen in soil for better overall plant growth. Annual legumes can be used similarly such as red clover, peas, or beans.
Growing Requirements
Variegated ginger is a versatile plant that tolerates a range of growing conditions from full shade to full sun, but the plant is happiest in partial shade and benefits from protection during the hot part of the afternoon. The plant tolerates nearly any well-drained soil, but prefers rich organic soil.
Propagation by Division
To divide variegated shell ginger, use a shovel or garden fork to dig an entire clump. Alternatively, if the clump is very large, use a shovel to dig a section of the plant's outer edge. Lift the clump from the ground, then pull the rhizomes apart. Plant the rhizomes with the shoots attached, or remove the shoots and plant the rhizomes.
Planting Divisions
Plant divided ginger in soil that you have prepared ahead of time. Variegated ginger likes fertile soil and benefits from the addition of 2 to 4 inches of organic matter such as leaf mold, compost or decomposed manure.
General Care
Variegated ginger is moderately drought tolerant, but does best in soil kept consistently moist. Regular watering is especially critical during periods of hot, dry weather, or if the plant is located in full sunlight. Water often enough to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
How tall is a variegated ginger plant?
With its brightly colored leaves in shades of creamy white, gold or yellow stripes and shell-shaped blooms, the variegated shell ginger plant (Alpinia zerumbet) makes a bold statement in the landscape. Although the variegated shell ginger plant can reach heights of 12 feet in the tropics, in the garden, most plants won't exceed 4 feet.
What color are the leaves of a ginger plant?
With its brightly colored leaves in shades of creamy white, gold or yellow stripes and shell-shaped blooms, the variegated shell ginger plant (Alpinia zerumbet) makes a bold statement in the landscape. Although the variegated shell ginger plant will grow in partial sunlight, bright sunlight will bring out the strongest colors in the leaves.
Can you grow a ginger plant indoors?
The variegated shell ginger plant can also be grown outdoors in a patio container, or can be grown indoors as a houseplant. Plant variegated shell ginger plant in full sunlight. Although the variegated shell ginger plant will grow in partial sunlight, bright sunlight will bring out the strongest colors in the leaves.
Can you grow ginger in partial sunlight?
Although the variegated shell ginger plant will grow in partial sunlight, bright sunlight will bring out the strongest colors in the leaves. Place variegated shell ginger plants grown as houseplants in bright sunlight, and keep the soil moist.
Can you water a ginger plant?
Indoor-grown variegated shell ginger plants will benefit from being placed in a humid environment, such as a bathroom or kitchen. Water variegated ginger shell plant often, but don't allow the soil to become soggy. If the variegated ginger shell plant is containerized and kept outdoors, check the soil daily during hot, dry weather.
How much sun does ginger need?
Location and Soil. Variegated ginger is not picky when it comes to its location in the garden -- it can grow in areas that provide at least six hours of sun and bright light throughout the day but can also thrive in partial shady areas of the garden.
Can ginger be grown in the cooler climate?
Because variegated ginger doesn't flower until its second year, it can only be enjoyed for its foliage in the cooler areas. The leaves can withstand temperatures as low as 25 degrees Fahrenheit, but if the soil freezes, the roots won't be able to overwinter.
Is ginger frost tolerant?
Variegated ginger isn't frost tolerant, and a minimum temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit is required for optimal growth. Although the plant can be started from seed, starting it from pieces of the rhizome or from a nursery-bought container plant is faster. The rhizome is the fleshy root that resembles a culinary ginger root.
Can ginger be grown in Zone 8?
Because variegated ginger doesn't flower until its second year, it can only be enjoyed for its foliage in the cooler areas. The leaves can withstand temperatures as low as 25 degrees Fahrenheit, but if the soil freezes, the roots won't be able to overwinter. In cooler areas of USDA zone 8, a thick layer of organic mulch might help protect the roots. If unsure about the effectiveness of garden mulch, dig up the rhizome, store it at 55 degrees Fahrenheit in dry pine bark mulch, and then restart it in spring after frost danger has passed.
Pruning of Variegated Ginger (Alpinia Zerumbet Variegata)
In an old blog post about foliage plants, Jennifer P. commented, telling me of her variegated ginger, and how tall it had grown. It was getting so tall it was blocking a view she enjoyed.
1. When the Plant Grows Too Tall For Your Garden
This was the problem described by Jennifer. This evergreen plant can grow to 8 or 9 feet tall in Zones 9 – 11. Often it will become top heavy, and lean over onto other plants, or it may simply be taller than you would like. To achieve a shorter, more compact plant, remove the tallest canes at the ground.
2. After Freeze Damage
If you find leaves that are discolored around the edges with or without spotty damage, this is likely frost damage or damage caused by a light freeze. These leaves should be removed individually, leaving the cane which will grow new leaves.
3. After Damage From Drought
Alpinia needs a lot of water, so during a drought, be conscientious about caring for this plant, while complying with watering restrictions. After a drought, you may need to remove some brown leaves or leaves with a lot of brown spots.
4. For Floral Arrangements
Alpinia canes take about two years to produce these gorgeous, pendulous, orchid-like flowers that provide a great addition to cut flower arrangements, as do the large green-and-yellow striped leaves.
When to Prune
Remove freeze-damaged canes a few days after the freeze, allowing time for all damage to become apparent. Otherwise, always prune them after the blooming season has passed, in order to enjoy the gorgeous orchid-like flowers. Individual leaves that turn brown can often be removed by pinching them off with your hands.
How and Where to Cut
Be sure to cut on a fairly steep angle, because, if the cane stands straight up, and the cut gives it a flat top, this will allow water to sit on top of the cane, and gradually seep into the stem. That will cause rot, and invite disease and pests.