Alpinia purpurata (Red Ginger Lily)

Botanical name: Alpinia purpurata

Common names: Red Ginger Lily, Ostrich Plume, Red Cone Ginger

Origin: Malay Peninsula

Extremely tropical looking, one of the most desirable symbols of Tropics, Alpinia purpurata, red ginger, also called ostrich plume and pink cone ginger, are native Malaysian plants with showy flowers on long brightly colored red bracts. They look like the bloom, but the true flower is the small white flower on top. Red Ginger grows in Hawaii, and many Central American nations, including Belize. It is also found in Samoa, where it is the national flower, and is locally called "teuila." It prefers partial shade and moist humid conditions, although it can tolerate full sun in some climates. It tends to like to be well watered and not left to dry out. Ginger can also be grown as a houseplant and its cut flowers can be used in arrangements. Likes a slightly acid soil. Every other year trim to ground to prevent legginess. Blooms from spring to summer if there is enough humidity.

See Article about Alpinia.