Zingiber spectabile aka Beehive Ginger

Taxonomy

Zingiber spectabile, a species of true ginger, is a rhizomatous perennial with erect, unbranched stems that can reach up to 2.5m in height. This plant is native to Maritime Southeast Asia and is primarily cultivated in the Western regions as an ornamental plant. However, in South-East Asia, it has been traditionally used as a medicinal herb. The fleshy rhizomes give rise to narrow, lance-shaped leaves. The plant produces small, purple and white flowers with yellow spots, which emerge from pale yellow-orange bracts. These bracts overlap, forming a cylindrical, beehive-like structure. Over time, the bracts may darken in color, turning orange and red.

Common names

Beehive Ginger

How to care for Beehive Ginger

Difficulty

Beehive Ginger is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Soil

When growing Beehive Ginger, it is important to pay attention to the soil type you are using. This plant is very sensitive to dry soil and needs a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still be well-draining and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great options to provide the Beehive Ginger with the nutrients and moisture it needs. The added organic matter will also help the soil retain water and prevent the Beehive Ginger from drying out too quickly. Before planting, make sure to mix compost or manure into the soil for extra nutrients. Also, make sure to water the Beehive Ginger regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. With the correct soil and watering regimen, the Beehive Ginger will thrive and bring lots of beauty to your home.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Beehive Ginger prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Beehive Ginger to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The Beehive Ginger should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.


More info:
Wikipedia