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Ginger

How to identify Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger, also known as Garden Ginger, East Indian Ginger, Red Ginger

Ginger features lance-shaped leaves that can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length. The leaves have a shiny green surface and are arranged in an alternate pattern on the pseudostems, which can reach about 2 to 3 feet (60-90 cm) tall. Concealed beneath the soil, ginger has fleshy, jointed rhizomes. During the warm season, greenish-yellow flowers with purple lips emerge from cone-like bracts. These inflorescences are typically found near the base of the plant.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Ginger

1

Lance-shaped leaves up to 12 inches (30 cm) long with shiny green surface.

2

Greenish-yellow flowers with purple lips emerge from cone-like bracts near the base.

3

Upright, smooth green stem growing up to 3 feet (90 cm) tall with slightly swollen nodes.

4

Distinctive sheath-like structure encasing stem for rigidity and protection.

5

Flowering spikes with green or yellow bracts and translucent margins, reaching 2-4 inches (5-10 cm).

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Detailed Traits of Ginger

Flower Features

The flowers of ginger are borne on cone-shaped spikes characterized by a series of green or yellow bracts with translucent margins. These bracts encase protruding blooms. The flowering spikes develop on a leafless stem that grows separately from the foliage stem. The bracts can reach lengths of 2-4 inches (5-10 cm), producing a distinct and vibrant appearance. The inflorescence appears after a few years as the plant matures, heralding its distinctive blooming period.

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Stem Features

The stem of ginger is upright, smooth, and green, typically growing up to 3 feet (90 cm) in height. It is cylindrical and robust, with no branching. The stem is characterized by its slightly swollen nodes and thin internodes, appearing somewhat jointed. The texture is firm yet pliable, allowing it to support the weight of the thick foliage above. The distinctive sheath-like structure encases the stem, providing additional rigidity and protection.

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Key Facts About Ginger

Attributes of Ginger
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
50 cm to 1 m
Spread
60 cm to 1.2 m
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
4 cm to 5 cm
Leaf type
Deciduous
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Scientific Classification of Ginger

Family
Ginger
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Genus
Gingers
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Species
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
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Distribution Map of Ginger

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has a distribution that includes a native presence primarily in regions of Southeast Asia. Over time, ginger has been introduced to various continents, such as Africa, Central and South America, encompassing a multitude of tropical and subtropical regions. There, ginger is sometimes thought to be naturalized, yet may have an impact on certain local ecosystems. It is widely cultivated globally for its diverse applications, and care is taken where ginger may be competitive with native flora. The plant's cultivation is extensive due to its high demand in various industries and its adaptability to different climatic zones.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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