A15 RED GINGER (Alpinia purpurata) Zingiberacea family
Native to parts of Melanesia, but it has been introduced and naturalized in many tropical regions, including Hawai’i. This plant prefers partial shade and moist conditions. Their showy “flower” is actually colorful bracts. The true flower is the small white flower on top.
- Striking red, pink, or white floral bracts that surround the small white flowers
- Bracts are often used for cut flower arrangements and tropical decorations
- Hawaiian royalty wore lei of red ginger in important ceremonies