Native ginger Redback (Alpinia caerulea)
Native ginger Redback (Alpinia caerulea)
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Why we love this plant!
Why we love this plant!
The Native Ginger (Redback) is a hardy and versatile Australian plant that provides food and habitat for wildlife while being a valuable addition to the garden. Its edible berries, flowers, and roots make it popular among bush tucker enthusiasts, while its vibrant blue fruits attract birds, supporting local biodiversity. Thriving in shady and challenging garden spots, this low-maintenance plant is ideal for understorey planting, soil stabilisation, and adding greenery to shaded areas. Well-adapted to South East Queensland’s warm and humid conditions, it grows well in subtropical gardens from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast.
Care Considerations
Care Considerations
Watering preferences:
- Regular watering is beneficial, especially during warmer months.
- Can tolerate occasional dry spells once established.
Mulching preferences:
- A layer of organic mulch may help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilising preferences:
- A slow-release, balanced fertiliser may support robust growth.
Pruning preferences:
- Minimal pruning required—removing old or damaged leaves may help maintain a tidy appearance.
Good to Know:
- Edible berries and roots, commonly used in bush food
- May attract native pollinators and wildlife.
Plant Details
Plant Details
Common uses: | Shade-giving, Attractive foliage, Low maintenance garden, Feature plant, Pollinator-friendly, Bush tucker, Edible, Fragrant, Seasonal colour, Privacy screening, Tropical garden, Understory planting, and Soil improver |
Expected Height Range: | 1 m - 2 m |
Spread Range: | up to 1 m |
Preferred positioning: | Partial shade and Full shade |
Flower Season/s: | Summer and Spring |
Flower Colour/s: |
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Plant life cycle: | Perennial |
Habitat: | Native to rainforest areas in eastern Australia, where it thrives in the understory, benefiting from high humidity, filtered light, and moist, well-drained soils. |
Leaf information: | Broad, deep green, strappy leaves with a slightly waxy texture. |
Preferred Soil: | Prefers slightly moist, well-drained soils and can handle sandy, loamy, or clay soils, as long as they are not compacted or waterlogged. |
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