How to grow Native Ginger in Australia
A rainforest plant for part to full shade in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Keep the soil consistently moist, as it dislikes drying out, and mulch well to hold moisture around the roots.
At a glance
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Sun: Shade tolerant
- Water: 8 litres a week, watered every 3 days
- Spacing: 60 cm
- Time to harvest: 365 days (about 1 year)
- Time to germinate: 30 days
- Soil pH: 5 to 6.5
- Frost tolerance: Half hardy
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| South East Queensland | September to February | |
| Northern Rivers NSW | September to February | |
| Sydney & Coastal NSW | September to February | |
| Melbourne & Victoria | Not suited | Not viable. Rainforest plant needing warm, humid conditions year-round. |
| Adelaide & SA | Not suited | Not viable. Needs warm, humid rainforest conditions. |
| Perth & WA | Not suited | Not viable in Perth. Needs humid rainforest conditions. |
| Tasmania | Not suited | Unsuitable. Warm rainforest native. Not viable in Tasmania. |
| Canberra & ACT | Not suited | Not viable. Needs warm, humid rainforest conditions. |
| North Queensland | September to March | Native rainforest plant. Thrives in North QLD shade. |
| Darwin & Top End | September to March | Native to northern Australian rainforests. Thrives in Darwin shade. |
Varieties
- Red-back Native Ginger
Companion planting
Good companions
- Native plants
- Davidson plum
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Harvest the rhizomes once the clump is well grown, and the leaves and fruit at any stage. Dig a section and replant a piece to keep it spreading.
Storage
Fresh berries fridge for 1 week. Stems use fresh.