Curcuma alismatifolia

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Native to Thailand, Curcuma alismatifolia (Siam Tulip) is a small shrub that reaches up to 2-5 feet tall. In outdoor settings, the plant prefers shade or semi-shade, and needs regular water. During the growing season it produces stunning pink or white and off-white flowers. This species is considered a deciduous plant, and will lose much of its foliage during the dormant season.

Though this plant is typically grown in USDA Zone 9-11, a mature plant can be cold hardy at least to 30°F for a short time. In colder regions, this plant has to be grown in a protective pot placed in locations sheltered from extremely cold temperatures. Make sure the soil for Curcuma alismatifolia is kept moist to ensure growth and it should be well drained. Additionally, the pot should be lined with a plastic layer to protect from frost. If a container is used, the soil can dry out more quickly so it is important to check the soil regularly. When watering, make sure to water the soil and not the foliage. During the hottest months it may need water every day, as the heat can dry out the soil rapidly.

In summary, Curcuma alismatifolia is a deciduous plant native to Thailand reaching 2-5 feet tall. It prefers shade or semi-shade, needs regular water and produces stunning pink or white and off-white flowers. The mature plant is cold hardy at least to 30°F for a short time or in colder regions can be grown in a protective pot with a plastic lining in sheltered locations from the cold. The soil needs to be moist and well-drained, and should be checked regularly. Water the soil and not the foliage. It may need water every day during the warmest months.

Similar plants:

• Boesenbergia rotunda, Curcuma rotunda (Chinese Keys, Fingerroot, Lesser Galangal, Chinese Ginger)
• Curcuma longa (Spice Turmeric, Longevity Spice, Indian Saffron, Tumeric)
• Curcuma roscoeana, Curcuma kurzii, Curcuma coccinea (jewel of Burma, Orange Ginger, Orange Siam Tulip)
• Curcuma sp. (Turmeric, Siam Tulip)
• Hitchenia careyana, Curcuma careyana (Praying Mantle Ginger)