Alpinia galanga – Greater Galangal, Siamese Ginger, Thai Ginger

Description

Alpinia galanga is a robust perennial herb, 1.5 to 2 meters tall, cultivated for its aromatic rhizomes widely used as a culinary spice. It forms dense clumps of upright stems with long, lance-shaped leaves and produces attractive white flowers marked with red streaks, followed by red berry-like fruits. Native to Southeast Asia, it thrives in warm, humid climates with partial shade to full sun and prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil. The rhizomes have a sharp, citrusy, and peppery flavor, essential in Southeast Asian cuisine, especially Thai dishes. Ideal for tropical and subtropical gardens or container growing in cooler regions.