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A dark leaved plant that has been circulated for a couple of years.I struggle to keep it - I think it needs more warmth
that I can easily supply, but the best plants I have seen were grown in an unheated greenhouse. (With the proviso that this was in the summer, and I don't know if it survived
the winter). It turns up occasionally as a house plant under the name iZingiber 'Midnight', but it isn't really suitable in the long term. I got it from Aloha Tropicals in California. Their catalogue said: "An amazing new zingiber with leaves that appear qlmost black, producing basal inflorescence from the ground that are cone shaped and yellow, as the cone ages, tiny pink flowers emerge from within its cone, turning the entire cone a mauve pink. Height 2-3'. Foliage is absolutely stunning." Top Tropicals say: "Zingiber malaysianum, more commonly known as Black ginger or midnight ginger, is a small plant native to Malaysia. Growing between 2 and 5 feet tall, it requires semi-shade and regular watering to thrive. The ornamental foliage, which is a glossy deep purple-bronze in color, pairs nicely with its yellow and orange flowers in the spring and summer periods. This semi-tropical plant is hardy to USDA Zones 9-11 and can tolerate mature temperatures of at least 30sF for a short time. When growing Black Ginger in colder regions, special care should be taken to ensure its winter survival. Planting the shrub in a container and then bringing it indoors during colder months is often recommended, as this will give the plant a greater chance at withstanding freezing temperatures. In addition to being brought indoors during colder months, the plant must be provided with plenty of light and humidity. The soil should remain damp enough to support growth but should also be able to dry out slightly between waterings. During dry spells, Zingiber malaysianum should be watered more frequently, as it does not like to become too dry. In the summer months, additional fertilization is recommended to give the shrub a boost of nutrients and to promote healthy growth. Overall, Zingiber malaysianum is an easy-to-care-for shrub, requiring semi-shade, regular watering, and protection during cold winter months. With its striking, glossy foliage and yellow and orange flowers, this small shrub adds both beauty and color to any garden." |
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| 14th November 2006 | ||
