Green Shell Ginger – Alpinia zerumbet

General Landscape Uses: Excellent for mid-story screening, tropical borders, or as a lush backdrop for smaller flowering plants. Often used near water features or shaded patios where its fragrance and texture can be appreciated. Ecological Restoration Notes: Generally not used for restoration in the Americas as it is an exotic species. In some regions (like Hawaii), it can be mildly aggressive if left unchecked, though it is not typically classified as a major invasive threat in the continental US. Description: A rhizomatous, evergreen perennial with upright, cane-like stems and large, lance-shaped, dark green leaves. Dimensions: Height 8 – 12 ft.; Spread 4 – 8 ft. Growth Rate: Fast Native Range: Japan to Taiwan Native Habitats: Forest edges and low-lying moist woodlands Soils: Well-drained Nutritional Requirements: Moderate Salt Water Tolerance: Low Salt Wind Tolerance: Moderate Drought Tolerance: Low to moderate Light Requirements: Part Sun Flower Color: Pearly white tipped with pink, opening to reveal a yellow/red throat Flower Characteristics: Drooping terminal panicles. Individual buds look like small, polished sea shells (hence the name). Flowering Season: Late spring to summer Fruit: Globose, ribbed red capsules containing several seeds Wildlife and Ecology: Flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The foliage has a spicy, ginger-like scent when crushed. Horticultural Notes: Grown from division, seed, cuttings Comments: