Red torch ginger is a perennial tropical plant native to Malaysia and Indonesia but naturalized in the Western Ghats of India. The plant grows from rhizomes, bulbous root structures similar to culinary part of the ginger family. The main attraction of the plant is its sturdy cluster of bracts that vary from light pink to deep rose color and resemble a flaming torch, hence the name Red Torch Ginger.
The flamboyant flower attracts Sunbirds which helps it in pollination. In Kerala, torch ginger is widely popular ornamental plant in both public and private gardens. In Malaysia and Singapore the young flowering shoots are used as an ingredient to add flavor to national dishes.
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Hello, Salim. I have been looking for sometime to purchase torch ginger. I live in Chennai. Could you please guide me how I can purchase from Kerala and if it would survive in Chennai climate?
Hi Shafak, Torch ginger plants are available in Kerala, but let me speak to the botanist or the gardner whether it will grow in Chennai weather. Thanks and best regards, Salim
Ok. Eagerly waiting for your followup comment.
Hi Shafak. According to the gardener the torch ginger plant might grow in lower elevations but he has a doubt whether it will bloom. You just might have to visit Hill Stations to enjoy them!
In Kerala it is growing only at higher elevations? I thought it grew in the plains.
Hi Shafak, we’ve confirmed that it is really a high elevation plant. Although it might survive in the plains, it would grow very slowly and most likely not bloom. So plan your next trip to the Hill Stations with flower viewing in mind. Cheers!
Ok. Thank you.