Indonesian Wax Ginger

Indonesian Wax Ginger Care

Tapeinochilos Ananassae

What is the plant

A distinct addition to the tropical landscape! Looking similar to an upside down pineapple or a ripening pine cone, the stiff and pointy bracts of the inflorescence are bright red and grow basally while the leaf stalks will continue ever upward to around seven feet. Wax Ginger prefers just a little shade and a moist but well drained soil. Note: The long lasting inflorescence (blooms), when vased, can often be enjoyed for two or more weeks.

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Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Full Sun

Hardiness zone

10 - 11

Difficulty

Medium

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Requires consistently moist soil; do not let dry out between waterings
Fertilizer
To help establish your new Indonesian Wax Ginger, fertilize sparingly ten inches away from the base, tri-annually with a slow time released product. Unfertilized they will tend to grow at a slower pace. Note: The heavy salts in cheaper fertilizers will damage the roots and possibly kill the plant. Its best to use a brand you know and trust.
Sunlight
This Ginger requires 80-90% sunlight. Depending on your location partial sun is often best.

Disease diagnosis

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Soil
Indonesian Wax Ginger enjoy a well drained, general potting mix easily found at your local box store. Remember try to stay away from arid or wet, mucky soils.
Temperature
In the northern end of their grow zone Indonesian Wax Ginger should be brought indoors or protected during the winter months. The patio zone is 4b-11 which means the potted plant will flourish over the summer months in colder zones but must be brought inside before winter.
Container
All Ginger varieties grow very well in containers, indoors or on the patio. This larger variety needs enough room for growth, generally a 24″ to a 36″ diameter, 20″ deep container will suffice. Remember the looser the roots, the taller and healthier your Ginger will be. When the plant becomes root bound its growth will slow, at that point it is time for a larger pot.