Alpinia japonica 'Extra Spicy'
perennial

Japanese Ginger

Alpinia japonica 'Extra Spicy'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

8, 9

Water

Regular moisture

Humidity

High humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China, Japan, Taiwan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Alpinia japonica is a rhizomatous, evergreen perennial featuring lush, lance-shaped, glossy green leaves and terminal racemes of small, white, orchid-like flowers. The flowers have a distinctive pinkish-red striped labellum. The plant produces attractive, round, red fruits in fall.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds lush, tropical foliage and fragrant flowers to shaded gardens, enhancing visual appeal.
Practical UsesProvides ground cover that suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators with its nectar-rich flowers.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in well-draining soil.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  3. Mist foliage during dry periods to increase humidity.
  4. Place in partial shade for optimal growth.
  5. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and partial shade for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
  • Apply mulch to retain moisture
  • Fertilize monthly during active growth
  • Prune dead or damaged leaves

Don't

  • Avoid drought stress ❌
  • Don’t expose to full sun 🌞
  • Don’t over-fertilize to prevent leaf burn
  • Avoid heavy, waterlogged soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Fertilize
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant border plantTropical garden accentShade garden highlight

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Caladium Elephant Ear Bromeliads

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Ginger questions

What zones can Japanese Ginger grow in?

Japanese Ginger is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Japanese Ginger deer resistant?

Yes β€” Japanese Ginger is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Japanese Ginger bloom?

Japanese Ginger typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Japanese Ginger need full sun?

Japanese Ginger does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Japanese Ginger with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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