Alpinia calcarata (Alpinia calcarata) is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. It is valued for its medicinal properties, particularly in traditional medicine systems.
Habitat: Native to Southeast Asia, Alpinia calcarata thrives in tropical climates with well-drained soil and partial shade. It can be found in forests, along riverbanks, and in disturbed habitats.
- Light: Prefers partial shade to full shade.
- Soil: Well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Maintenance: Regular pruning of dead leaves and flowers encourages healthy growth. Propagation is commonly done through division of rhizomes.
Additional Information: Alpinia calcarata is known for its aromatic rhizomes, which are used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. It produces clusters of showy white or pinkish flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.