Shell Ginger

Shell ginger is a bold, rhizomatous perennial with broad, lush leaves and hanging clusters of shell-shaped flowers. The species varies substantially in size: green forms can reach about 10 feet, while variegated selections are shorter, so confirm the form before allowing for mature height. ## Landscape Use and Appearance Use shell ginger as a tropical-looking backdrop, specimen, or large container plant where its upright leafy stems have room to spread. The pendulous flowers have pale pink and white outer surfaces; flowering is most likely on older stems after a mild winter. Cold can damage the foliage or stems, with regrowth from the rhizomes in suitable climates. ## Siting and Water Grow in part shade for lush foliage, though it can tolerate sun in appropriate climates. It grows in fertile, moist, well-drained soil and benefits from irrigation during extended drought; established plants have some drought tolerance. The plant spreads from rhizomes, so allow room for a clump or contain it where spread must be limited. It is suited to warm gardens and protected seasonal containers rather than exposed cold sites. [University of North Florida Botanical Garden](https://www.unf.edu/botanical-garden/plants/alpinia-zerumbet.html) describes the green and variegated forms and their differing sizes; [UF/IFAS](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP036) gives culture guidance for the named variegated selection, and [Botanic Gardens of South Australia](https://plantselector.botanicgardens.sa.gov.au/Plants/Details/2717) records species-level flowering, size, and siting data. ## Maintenance Water through dry periods, especially in sunny sites, and remove cold-damaged stems after winter once new growth shows what has survived. Divide rhizomes during active growth if a clump needs reducing or renewal.