Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Logo

Follow us

Stay connected with our latest news & stories from Jean-Micheal Cousteau Resort Fiji

Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

STORIES

Red Ginger

Red Ginger

Alpinia purpurata (Zingiberaceae)

Characteristics

Pseudostems, usually about 3 m tall, composed of overlapping leaf-sheaths. Thick rhizoms. Alpinia is the largest genus in the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) with about 230 species.

Red Ginger can be grown in regions like South Florida since, in general, those regions do not fall below freezing temperatures.

Distribution

Native to Malaysia. Today, widespread as ornamental plant, e.g. in Hawaii, Fiji, Panama, Jamaica, Suriname and Belize.

Natural Medical Properties

The fruit is used to treat sores.
A decoction of the leaves is used in the treatment of stomach complaints

Did you know?

Red ginger is the national flower of Samoa, locally called “teuila”.

The red part of the plant is not the true flower but brightly colored bracts (leaves). The true flower is a small white flower on top.

Further reading:

Here

Literature

World Flora Online
WorldChecklist of Selected Plant Families
A working list of all plant species

www.worldfloraonline.org
www.wcsp.science.kew.org
www.theplantlist.org

AWARDS

A chorus of acclaim with prestigious awards

Each recognition echoes the resort's unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility and authentic Fijian experiences.

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji Awards

SUBSCRIBE

Stay up to date

To stay in touch and be inspired by our latest news & stories from Jean-Micheal Cousteau Resort Fiji, please register your interest.