Species bitter ginger

bitter ginger

Zingiber zerumbet

Bitter ginger (Zingiber zerumbet) is a tropical herb with a unique aroma and flavor. It is native to Southeast Asia and is a popular ingredient in Thai, Vietnamese, Indian and other Asian cuisines. The plant grows up to 4 feet in height and has bright green, oblong leaves and yellow shoots that eventually develop into purple-tinged flowers. The rhizome, or underground stem, is the part of the plant used most often. It is spicy, with ginger overtones, and is described as having a "biting" aftertaste. The plant is sometimes used medicinally to treat digestive disorders and respiratory ailments. It is also thought to be beneficial in helping to reduce inflammation and pain. Its aroma and flavor make it a favored culinary ingredient in many Asian dishes.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Air Layering Propagation,Stem Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 10

Flowers:

Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Bitter ginger should be watered regularly and evenly, but not excessively. Water the plant when the top few inches of the soil have become dry. Deep water the plant until the water comes out of the bottom of the pot to ensure the roots receive moisture. Allow the soil to mostly dry out before watering again. Generally, bitter ginger should be watered every other day or every 2 to 3 days.

sunlight

Bitter ginger (Zingiber zerumbet) is a tropical plant, native to Southeast Asia, that prefers bright, indirect sunlight for 6-8 hours per day. During periods of high heat, it is best to provide direct sunlight for no longer than 4 hours per day. Additionally, when it is exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time, the leaves may start to burn. To prevent this, ensure to monitor the plant’s exposure to direct sunlight.

pruning

Bitter ginger (Zingiber zerumbet) should be pruned in late winter or early spring before the new growth of the season begins. Prune no more than 1/3 of the foliage at a time so that the plant does not become weakened and can continue to thrive. Dead, damaged, and overcrowded stems can be removed to promote health within the plant. Clean and sharpened pruning tools should be used to ensure a tidy job and reduce the chance of disease transmission.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Bitter ginger typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Starts Flowering

Bitter ginger typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Hardiness Map