Red ginger (Alpinia purpurata)
Care, watering, light and tips for Red ginger on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Zingiberaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Red ginger
Alpinia purpurata, commonly known as Red Ginger or Coral Ginger, is a lush tropical plant renowned for its striking, intense red or pink bracts that resemble flowers. It's perfect for adding an exotic touch to tropical gardens, as an accent plant, or in large containers, and its 'flowers' are excellent for long-lasting floral arrangements. Its presence evokes the warmth and vitality of humid rainforests.
Native range
Malaysia and New Caledonia
Care tips
It requires bright, indirect light or partial shade, avoiding direct midday sun which can scorch its leaves. Keep the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season, and ensure excellent drainage. It prefers rich, organic, and well-draining soils. A common mistake is insufficient ambient humidity, which can lead to dry leaf tips; mist its leaves regularly or place it near a humidifier.
How to save a dying Red ginger
- Warning signs
- Yellow or brown leaves, soft stems, no flowering.
- First aid
- Check drainage, reduce watering, move to bright partial shade.
- What kills it
- Overwatering in heavy soil or strong direct sun.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly by removing damaged parts and adjusting watering.