Zingiber mioga
Zingiber mioga
Myoga
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Taxonomy
Family Zingiberaceae · Genus Zingiber
Description
Zingiber mioga, or myoga ginger, is a hardy, shade-loving ginger grown for its delicious, aromatic flower buds and young shoots. It forms lush clumps of tropical-looking foliage and thrives in cool, moist woodland conditions—perfect for edible and ornamental gardens alike.
Common Names
MyogaMyoga GingerJapanese Ginger
Context
nativeRegion
East Asia (Japan and Korea)
usdaZones
7–10 (can persist in 6 with winter protection)
companionPlants
Hosta, Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra), Ferns (Athyrium, Dryopteris), Astilbe, Hellebore (Helleborus), Solomon’s seal (Polygonatum), Heuchera
culturalUses
Buds and young shoots are eaten fresh, pickled, or tempura and used as garnish in Japanese cuisine (e.g., miso soup, sushi). Also grown ornamentally.
Care
Care Requirements
LightPart shade to full shade; bright indirect light. Protect from hot afternoon sun; morning sun is fine.
WateringKeep evenly moist during active growth; do not let soil fully dry. Mulch to conserve moisture and avoid waterlogging.
SoilRich, loose, well-drained loam with high organic matter; slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
FertilizerIn spring, mix in compost and apply a balanced slow‑release fertilizer; optional monthly diluted liquid feed in summer.
HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity (around 50–70%); shelter from drying winds helps.
TemperatureBest growth at 60–85°F (16–29°C). Hardy in-ground to USDA 7–10; foliage dies after frost but rhizomes overwinter.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitRhizomatous, clumping perennial forming colonies; arching, lanceolate leaves; flowers emerge at ground level.
Mature Size2–3 ft tall (0.6–1 m) and 2–4 ft wide via spreading rhizomes.
Growth RateModerate to fast in warm, moist conditions.
BloomingLate summer to early autumn; pale yellow to cream flowers at the base—harvest flower buds before opening for best flavor.
DormancyWinter dormant; top growth dies back after frost and re-sprouts in late spring.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of rhizomes, Seed (slow, variable)
DifficultyEasy by division; moderate from seed.
Best SeasonSpring as new shoots emerge (or autumn after dieback in mild climates).
Maintenance & Notes
PruningCut spent stems and foliage to the ground after frost; tidy dead or damaged leaves during the season; harvest buds regularly.
RepottingFor containers, divide and refresh soil every 2–3 years in spring.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally trouble-free; watch for slugs/snails on new shoots and spider mites in dry heat. Possible rust/leaf spot; avoid waterlogged soils to prevent rhizome rot.
ToxicityNon-toxic; edible to humans. Safe for pets.
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