Overview
Alpinia caerulea is a clump forming conservatory greenhouse in the genus Alpinia, part of the Zingiberaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Alpinia caerulea grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1c. Suggested uses include patio and container plants and flower borders and beds.
About
Alpinia caerulea, commonly known as native ginger or Australian ginger, is an understorey perennial herb in the family Zingiberaceae which grows in rainforest, gallery forest and wet sclerophyll forest in eastern Australia.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Alpinia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1c
Plant details
Alpinia caerulea size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Alpinia caerulea
- Propagation
- Division in spring
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to slugs and snails
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Alpinia caerulea?
Alpinia caerulea prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Alpinia caerulea need?
Alpinia caerulea grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Alpinia caerulea hardy in the UK?
Alpinia caerulea has an RHS hardiness rating of H1c, meaning it needs a warm, frost-free position of 5–10°C and is best grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Alpinia caerulea?
Division in spring.
More in the Alpinia genus
- Alpinia hainanensis
- Alpinia racemigera
- Alpinia zerumbetIndian shell flower
- Alpinia densespicata
- Alpinia romburghiana