Zingiber zerumbet
Zingiber zerumbet
Shampoo ginger
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Taxonomy
Family Zingiberaceae · Genus Zingiber
Common Names
Shampoo gingerPinecone gingerAwapuhi
Context
nativeRegion
Tropical Asia (Southeast Asia, India, China, and Pacific Islands).
usdaZones
9-12
companionPlants
Heliconia, Costus, Alpinia, Calathea
culturalUses
Rhizomes used in traditional medicine and as a flavoring/spice; the inflorescence (called 'shampoo ginger') is used for its fragrant, soapy liquid in hair and skin care.
Care
Care Requirements
LightPartial shade to filtered sunlight; avoid harsh midday sun.
WateringKeep soil consistently moist during the growing season; reduce watering in dormancy.
SoilRich, well-draining loam with high organic matter.
FertilizerBalanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during active growth.
HumidityPrefers high humidity; mist regularly or provide a humid environment.
TemperatureWarm conditions between 18-30°C (65-86°F); sensitive to frost.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitHerbaceous perennial with upright leafy stems; forms clumps.
Mature SizeUp to 1.2-2 m (4-6.5 ft) tall.
Growth RateModerate growth rate.
BloomingProduces pinecone-like inflorescences (red bracts) in late summer to autumn.
DormancyGoes dormant in winter; rhizomes can be kept dry until spring.
Propagation
MethodsRhizome division, Seed (rare)
DifficultyEasy by rhizome division; seed propagation is slow and unreliable.
Best SeasonSpring or early summer for division.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove dead foliage annually; cut back old stems after dormancy.
RepottingRepot or divide every 2-3 years to prevent overcrowding.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest resistant; monitor for aphids, spider mites, and root rot in soggy soils.
ToxicityNot known to be toxic to humans or pets.
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