Light. It is rated a partial-shade plant and performs best with some shade during the day.
Water. Water regularly while it establishes. It is moderately drought tolerant but needs extra water during dry spells.
Soil and feeding. It does best in moist, fertile, well-drained soil. It tolerates sand, clay, occasionally wet spots and slightly alkaline soil.
Size. Grows to about 5 ft in upright clumps, with leaves 18–24 inches long. White, fragrant flowers appear off and on through the year.
Problems to watch. Mites are a minor pest. No diseases are of major concern.
Good to know. The leaves smell spicy when crushed. Divide the rhizomes during the growing season to make new plants. It also grows well in containers.
Sources: UF/IFAS EDIS FP036: Alpinia zerumbet 'Variegata', Variegated Shell Ginger
