Perennial
Shell Ginger
Alpinia zerumbet
Traits
Varieties We Carry
VariegatedAlpinia zerumbet
Sizes & Pricing
3 galFrom$19.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightFull Sun to Part Shade
WaterModerate
Mature size8-10 feet × 5-8 feet
About Shell Ginger
Shell Ginger is a large tropical rhizomatous perennial in the ginger family native to East Asia, widely grown in Florida for its bold arching foliage and ornamental flower clusters. Drooping racemes of waxy shell-shaped buds open to fragrant white and pink flowers with yellow lips marked in red, appearing in summer on mature canes. Starting at $19.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Summer
- Flower Color
- White and pink with yellow and red markings
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Herbaceous perennial (dies back to rhizome in hard freezes; regrows in spring)
- Soil
- Loam, Moist, Well-drained
Care essentials
Light
Shell ginger thrives in full sun to part shade; in Northeast Florida it performs well in both exposures, though partial shade protects the large leaves from scorching and keeps foliage looking its best through summer.
Water
Keep soil consistently moist and mulch heavily to retain moisture; shell ginger benefits from regular watering throughout the growing season. It is tolerant of Florida's summer rainfall but needs supplemental irrigation during dry periods.
Soil & Fertilizer
Prefers rich, moist, well-drained loamy soil. Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring through fall) with a balanced slow-release granular fertilizer to support vigorous growth and flowering on mature canes. New rhizome divisions can be planted in spring.
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Common questions
Is Shell Ginger a good plant for St. Augustine?
Shell Ginger is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 8-10 feet × 5-8 feet.