Botanical Features & Nature

• Scientific Name: Alpinia purpurata
• Common Names: Pink Ginger, Red Ginger, Ostrich Plume, Pink Cone Ginger
• Family: Zingiberaceae
• Origin: Native to the Maluku Islands and the Southwest Pacific; widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions
• Height: Typically grows between 3 to 15 feet (1 to 4.5 meters)
• Leaves: Large, glossy, lance-shaped leaves arranged alternately along the stem
• Flowers: Showy, bright pink to red bracts resembling cones; true flowers are small and white, nestled within the bracts
• Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant with rhizomatous roots

Care & Cultivation

• Sunlight: Thrives in partial shade to full sun; prefers bright, indirect light
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soils rich in organic matter; pH between 6.0 and 6.5
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water generously during the growing season
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during spring and summer to promote healthy growth and flowering
• Temperature: Prefers warm, humid environments; protect from temperatures below 45°F (7°C)
• Pruning: Remove spent flowers and dead or damaged leaves to encourage new growth
• Propagation: Propagated through division of rhizomes or stem cuttings

Uses & Benefits

Medicinal Applications

• Traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties
• Employed in treating digestive issues, arthritis, and respiratory ailments
• Contains compounds like gingerol and shogaol, known for their antioxidant and antimicrobial effects

Environmental Significance

• Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity
• Contributes to soil stabilization with its rhizomatous root system
• Improves air quality by absorbing pollutants

Ornamental & Cultural Importance

• Popular ornamental plant in tropical gardens for its vibrant flowers and lush foliage
• Used in floral arrangements and as a cut flower due to its long-lasting blooms
• Symbolizes resilience and beauty in various cultures

Advantages of Planting Pink Ginger

• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established
• Fast Growth: Rapidly establishes, providing quick coverage and greenery
• Versatility: Suitable for borders, containers, and as a specimen plant
• Pest Resistance: Generally resistant to pests and diseases
• Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant color and tropical flair to landscapes

Cultural Significance

• In some cultures, Pink Ginger is associated with healing and protection
• Used in traditional ceremonies and rituals symbolizing renewal and vitality