Torch Ginger

Description:

Rhizomatous perennial herb up to 6m tall. Leaves up to 85cm long, flushed purple when young, leathery with a central groove. Collections of flowers (inflorescences) grow at end of stalk, bracts spreading, deep pink with paler margin, floral bracts smaller, pink and fleshy. Fruiting heads measure 10x10cm, with each individual fruit hairy and green-red. Pollinated mainly by spiderhunter birds.

Habitat:

Country roadside near a spice garden.

Notes:

Grown throughout tropical South East Asia for the spectacular flowers and for food. The stems of the flowers are chopped up and added to curries or soups with rice noodles.