Ginger Plant

The Ginger Plant (Zingiber officinale) is a herbaceous perennial grown for its pungent, aromatic rhizome, used widely as a culinary spice and in traditional medicine. It forms annual pseudostems about one meter tall with narrow leaves and pale yellow, purple-edged flowers.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Zingiber officinale (family Zingiberaceae)
• Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Harvest: Pungent, aromatic ginger rhizome
• Pseudostems: About one meter tall, narrow leaves
• Flowers: Pale yellow with purple edges
• Light: Full to partial sun
• Growing zones: USDA 10 to 11 (not frost-tolerant)
• Plant size: 2 to 3 feet, 3-gallon container

Best for

• Culinary herb and spice gardens
• Subtropical and container growing
• Homegrown ginger rhizomes
• Ornamental tropical foliage
• Warm, frost-free climates

How to grow

Plant in well-drained, fertile soil that retains moisture, in full sun to partial shade, and water regularly during the growing season. Best suited to USDA zones 10 and 11; protect it from freezing temperatures, as it is not frost-tolerant. Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to encourage healthy rhizomes.

Flavor profile

Pungent and aromatic, ginger root adds a warm, distinctive flavor to both savory and sweet dishes.

About Everglades Farm

Everglades Farm is a Florida nursery in Homestead growing edible plants, fruiting trees, and rare garden showpieces, shipped directly from the nursery to your door.