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Ginger
Also known as: Garden Ginger, East Indian Ginger, Red Ginger
Ginger (*Zingiber officinale*) is an edible, herbaceous perennial species native to Southeast Asia. The root is commonly used throughout the world as a spice and flavoring. This species is related to turmeric and cardamom. Ginger has been cultivated for centuries; it was used in Ancient Greece and Rome and was important to the historical spice trade.
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50 cm to 1 m
Plant Height
60 cm to 1.2 m
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
4 cm to 5 cm
Flower Size
Brown, Yellow
Fruit Color
Yellow, Purple, Green
Flower Color
Green, Purple
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
15 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Fall
Growth Season
Moderate
Growth Rate

Images of Ginger

Distribution of Ginger

Distribution Map
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
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Moist tropical and subtropical forests
Hemisphere Trend Curve

Culture

Symbolism
Love, Money, Success
Name Story
Ginger: Ginger, a common cooking spice, probably gets its modern name from 14th century old English. The Old English Word, gingiber, may have evolved from the Greek word, zingiberis, or even from the Sanskrit word originally known as inchi-ver. Inchiver comes from the word inchi, which means root.
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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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Care Guide for Ginger

Every week
Water
Partial sun
Sunlight
15 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Thriving in tropical conditions, ginger prefers consistent moisture and thrives with weekly watering. While drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from regular soil moisture during its growing season to enhance its lush foliage and blooms, making it an excellent herbaceous perennial for outdoor growth.
Fertilize: To promote healthy growth of ginger, use balanced fertilizers rich in potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen every two weeks in the growing season. For juveniles, reduce to monthly. Follow product guidelines to avoid over-fertilization and adjust feeding during dormancy. Slow-release or liquid options are recommended.
Pruning: Ginger is a rhizomatous perennial with aromatic roots. Prune from early to late spring, removing dead foliage to enhance growth and air circulation. Regular pruning promotes healthy rhizome development and optimizes vitality and yield, necessitating clean, sharp tools to prevent infection.
Propagation: Ginger is a perennial herb prized for culinary and medicinal purposes. Propagate by dividing vigorous rhizomes with one growth bud, planting them in well-draining, organic-rich soil with eyes facing up. Maintain moisture without over-watering to prevent rot, promoting successful new shoot growth.
Repotting: Repot ginger every 2-3 years in spring, using a moderately large pot with good drainage. Maintain consistently moist soil and provide bright, indirect light for optimal growth. Use high-quality potting mix to promote a healthy revival and ongoing development.
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