Curcuma Elata Ginger (Curcuma Elata)

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Categorized as: Flower,Ginger

April 25, 2010 | 2215 Views | 0 Comments

Curcuma Elata, also know as the 'Giant Plume' Ginger, is one of the first gingers to bloom in spring. Large pink inflorescence is produced before leaves appear. Plants can become quite large; it grows well in medium to full sun. Elata will go dormant in November in cooler climates but returns in April or May.

Family: Zingiberaceae
Genus: Curcuma
Species: Elata
Cultivar: None Identified

Hardiness:

USDA Zone 7a: to 0 °F
USDA Zone 7b: to 5 °F
USDA Zone 8a: to 10 °F
USDA Zone 8b: to 15 °F
USDA Zone 9a: to 20 °F
USDA Zone 9b: to 25 °F

Height:

6-12 in.
12-18 in.
18-24 in.
2-3 ft.

Light Exposure:

10% to 40% Shade
40% to 60% Shade

Growth Rate:

Very Fast
Fast

A gorgeous shade loving plant, with blooms 1-2 feet tall. Upper bracts have bright purple tips with white bases, and lower bracts are a incredible apple green. The true flowers are pale yellow, and peek out from the bracts. Elata can be propagated by division. The leaves also have a remarkable softness to their underside - almost like a soft down.