Shell Ginger

Alpinia zerumbet - Shell Ginger
Zingiberaceae
Alpinia zerumbet is a native of Southeast Asia. Shell Ginger is a vigorous grower often reaching 8 feet in the greenhouse. Studies have shown that with good protection it can be grown outside in zone 7.

Variegated Shell Ginger
Description
Alpinia zerumbet 'Variegata' will show the best foliage color in partial sun or slightly shady conditions. Variegated Shell Ginger will flower after the second year if it does not freeze back in the winter.

Shell Ginger - Perennial that grows to 8' with white flower in summer. Part sun to light shade (tolerates full sun on coast). Irrigate regularly. 15-20 degrees F.
Alpinia zerumbet 'Variegata' ...

Variegated shell ginger is grown for its colorful foliage which will brighten up a partly shaded garden. The species may be found incorrectly named as Alpinia nutans in some catalogs or garden centers.

Alpinia zerumbet, Alpinia nutans, Alpinia speciosa (Shell ginger, Pink porcelain lily, Family: Zingiberaceae)
Alstonia macrophylla (Thungfaa, Devil Tree, Family: Apocynaceae)
Alstonia venenata (Sinnappalai, Devil Tree, Family: Apocynaceae) ...

Shell Ginger [English]: Alpinia nutans
Shell Ginger [English]: Alpinia zerumbet
Shell Ginger [English]: Alpinia zerumbet 'Variegata'
Shell Pink Balloon Flower [English]: Platycodon grandiflorus 'Shell Pink' ...

Important ornamental cousins include alpinia (shell ginger), and kaempferia (torch-ginger). The gingers are more distantly related to other common ornamental plants such as musa (bananas), heliconia, canna, and maranta.

See also: Alpinia, Alpinia zerumbet, Banana, Flowering Maple, Onion