Common Name: Beehive ginger
Medical Name: Zingiber spectabile
Type: Medical
Bloom Time: Seasonal bloomer
Sun: Part shade
Water: Medium to wet
Soil: Well-Drained, Rich
Flower: Cream, Red
Tolerate: Heat, Humidity
Maintenance: Medium
Suggested Use: Annual, Medical
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Zingiber spectabile, known as the true ginger used as a spice, is one of the oldest known and most widely consumed spices. This is a very beautiful species that looks very similar to the spectabile with smaller foliage. The basal inflorescence is bright red at the base blending to cream and yellow at the top. The stems are often red as well. Makes a wonderful container display.
PLANTING & CARING
This tropical plant, needing plenty of heat and humidity, may find a temporary home in a partially shady spot of your summer garden, but pot culture is more practical for an extended growing period. The best way to start ginger is to purchase a fresh (not dried or frozen) root at a grocery store in early spring. Cut the root (rhizome) into 1- or 2-" sections but long enough to include several healthy-looking, well-developed growth buds. Let the cut ends callous over (dry out) a day or so, then plant just below the soil surface in fertile, well-drained soil. Water sparingly until top growth develops, otherwise the rhizome could rot. Once established, water heavily, fertilize monthly, and keep in a partially shaded location. Allow several months before harvesting to allow rhizomes to reach adequate size. With care, new sections may be harvested while allowing the remainder to continue growing.
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