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Etlingera elatior
Etlingera elatior

Etlingera elatior

TAXONOMY

FamilyZingiberaceae
GenusEtlingera
Zone10

ABOUT

Etlingera elatior, commonly known as Torch Ginger, is a striking tropical plant native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Zingiberaceae family and is known for its large, vibrant inflorescences that resemble torches. This rhizomatous geophyte thrives in wet tropical climates and can grow quite tall, making it a popular ornamental plant in tropical gardens.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Alpinia Acrostachya
Alpinia Diracodes
Alpinia Javanica
Alpinia Magnifica
Alpinia Speciosa
Amomum Magnificum
Bojeria Magnifica
Cardamomum Magnificum
Cardamomum Speciosum
Diracodes Javanica
Elettaria Speciosa
Geanthus Speciosus
Hornstedtia Imperialis
Nicolaia Imperialis
Nicolaia Intermedia
Nicolaia Magnifica
Nicolaia Speciosa
Phaeomeria Imperialis
Phaeomeria Magnifica
Phaeomeria Speciosa
Torch Ginger
Alpinia elatior
Nicolaia elatior

OVERVIEW

WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity80%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

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DETAILS

Care Instructions
Torch Ginger requires bright, indirect light and thrives in warm, humid conditions. It prefers consistently moist soil and should be watered regularly to maintain its lush appearance. The plant does best in moderate to high temperatures and high humidity, making it ideal for tropical environments.
Soil
Etlingera elatior prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. A rich, organic soil mix with good drainage is ideal for this plant. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist to support its growth.
Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 to support the growth of Torch Ginger. Fertilize the plant every few weeks during the growing season to provide the necessary nutrients for its development.
Repotting
Repot Torch Ginger when it outgrows its current container or when the rhizomes become crowded. Choose a larger pot with good drainage and fresh, nutrient-rich soil. Repotting is best done in the spring or early summer.
Propagation
Propagate Torch Ginger by dividing the rhizomes. This is best done during the growing season when the plant is actively growing. Carefully separate the rhizomes and plant them in individual pots with well-draining soil.
Pruning
Prune Torch Ginger to remove dead or damaged leaves and spent flower stalks. Regular pruning helps maintain the plant's appearance and encourages new growth. Prune as needed throughout the growing season.
Toxicity
Etlingera elatior is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always a good practice to handle plants with care and wash hands after handling.
Additional
Torch Ginger is a stunning addition to tropical gardens and can also be used as a cut flower in floral arrangements. Its vibrant flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding to the biodiversity of the garden.
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