Overview of Shell Ginger
Alpinia zerumbet is a tender herbaceous perennial in the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) grown for its attractive flowers and foliage. This species is native to open woodlands of tropical eastern Asia, and it is frequently used as an annual foliage plant in cold climates. ‘Variegata’, a variegated cultivar native to India the most common type available in the Midwest. It is winter hardy in zones 8a to 10b, although rhizomes may survive in zone 7a in sites with winter protection.
Plants grow in upright clumps from heavy, fleshy rhizomes that look (and smell) like culinary ginger (Zingiber officinale). The rhizomes produce stout, slightly arching stems with evergreen leaves. Several dark green, lance-shaped leaves up to 2 feet long grow at intervals along the stems.
The species can grow up to 10 feet tall, but in northern gardens where grown as an annual, they generally only reach 3 to 4 feet tall. The cultivar ‘Variegata’ is a smaller, more compact plant featuring boldly, irregularly striped foliage. The leaves vary considerably in the amount of variegation, with some mostly green streaked with creamy yellow or gold, whereas others are primarily yellow with some green stripes.
Alpinia zerumbet produces an inflorescence on old growth, so flowers are usually not produced on plants grown as annuals or stored for the winter. Unlike most gingers, this species produces drooping racemes at the ends of the leafy stems rather than directly from the rhizomes. The waxy, funnel-shaped flowers are a pearly white tinged with light pink on the outside and bright yellow with red markings inside. The resemblance of the flowers to pearlescent seashells, especially when in bud, inspired the common name “shell” ginger. The flowers are slightly fragrant and are sometimes followed by striated fruits.
Landscape Use of Shell Ginger
Grow variegated shell ginger in large containers as a houseplant or patio plant (alone or in mixed containers) for a tropical effect. It can be planted in the ground as a striking specimen plant, or in masses as a bright backdrop for other flowering plants.
Combine it with dark foliage for dramatic contrast, and use it to brighten up a lightly shaded area. Mix variegated ginger with banana plants, castor bean (Ricinus communis) and elephant ears for an exotic foliage garden.
Grow variegated ginger outdoors in an organic rich, moist soil in full sun to part shade. Wait until the threat of frost has passed to move containers outside or to plant in the ground.
Provide plenty of water during the growing season and do not allow the soil to dry out (but do not let soil remain constantly soggy). Fertilize plants in containers at least monthly.
Variegated shell ginger has no significant pests and is not favored by deer. Rhizomes can be dug and stored over the winter. When keeping plants over the winter, lift them after the first frost, and store in a cool (around 55 °F), dry area.
As a houseplant, provide variegated shell ginger with bright light and humid conditions. The leaves will brown on the edges if plants lack adequate moisture or get too cold.
Plants can be divided if they get too large for a container.
Propagating Shell Ginger
Shell ginger is usually available as potted plants, but sometimes rhizomes can be purchased. When using rhizomes, plant them shallowly, about an inch below the soil surface.
Seed for this species is sometimes available. Soak seeds overnight and germinate at room temperature (72 to 75 F). Germination is irregular, and may take 1 to 3 months to occur. Fresh seed generally germinates better than seed that has been stored.
Cultivars of Shell Ginger
The most commonly available cultivar is ‘Variegata’, but sometimes others can be found, including:
- ‘Nana’ (sometimes listed as ‘Dwarf’) is a green leaved cultivar that grows 1 to 2 feet tall and wide.
- ‘Tiger’s Eye’ (sometimes listed as ‘Chinese Beauty’ or ‘Variegated Chinese Beauty’) is vigorous, with dark green leaves with light green variegation, and grows up to 8 feet tall.
- ‘Variegata Nana’ (sometimes listed as ‘Variegata Dwarf’) grows only 6 to 12 inches tall, with the same green and yellow variegated foliage
Author: Susan Mahr, University of Wisconsin—Madison
Reviewers: Allen R. Pyle, Horticulture Outreach Specialist, Bruce Spangenberg, Horticulture Outreach Specialist, UW—Madison Extension
Revised: June 2026
