Alpinia zerumbet aka Shell Ginger

Taxonomy

Alpinia zerumbet, commonly known as Shell Ginger or the pink porcelain lily, is a rhizomatous, evergreen, tropical perennial native to Eastern Asia. They grow up to 8-10 ft (2.4-3.0 m) tall in tropical climates and 4-8 ft (1.2-2.4 m) feet tall in more typical conditions. They bear showy, funnel-shaped flowers with white or pink perianths, yellow labella with red spots and stripes, three stamens (one with pollen) and one pistil. Its fruits are globose and striated. A popular houseplant, Variegated Shell Ginger needs regular watering, direct light and should be less than 1 foot from a window in order to thrive. Its leaves are used in cuisine and traditional medicine.

Common names

Shell Ginger, Shellplant, Light Galangal

How to care for Shell Ginger

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Shell Ginger, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

Shell Ginger should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

Shell Ginger requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Shellplant is always in the right place to thrive.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it is common for Shell Ginger plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.


More info:
Wikipedia