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Shampoo Ginger Plant

The Shampoo Ginger plant (Zingiber zerumbet) is a tropical plant known for its unique appearance and the gel-like substance inside its flowers, which has a mild, shampoo-like consistency. It’s also called Pineapple Ginger Awapuhi (Hawaiian) and Bitter.

The plant grows to about 1 – 2m tall and produces tall spikes of white to yellowish flowers that resemble pineapples. The flowers are the source of the unique shampoo-like Gel.

While Shampoo Ginger is often used for its Gel, be aware that the plant’s sap may cause skin irritation in some individuals. It is a good idea to test a small area of skin first before using the Gel on your body.

In colder climates, Shampoo Ginger cannot survive frost. If you’re growing it in a non-tropical region, it would need to be
brought indoors for the winter.

Scroll Down for Growing Information:

 

Position
Shampoo ginger grows best in partial shade to full sun. However, in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade is best.

Soil
The plant prefers well-drained, moist soil rich in organic matter. It does well in slightly acidic to neutral pH levels. Add acid compost to your soil before planting.

Once you’ve planted the Shampoo Ginger, water the plant thoroughly to help settle the soil around the roots. This ensures that the roots make good contact with the soil, which is crucial for proper growth.

Keep the soil moist but not soggy for the first few weeks after planting. Water every 2-3 days during this initial period, especially if the weather is warm or dry.

Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger about 2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water again. If it feels moist, wait a bit longer before watering.

When you water, make sure to water deeply. This encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil, promoting a strong root system. Watering deeply also helps prevent the plant from becoming dependent on frequent shallow watering.

Mulch

Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant. This helps retain moisture in the soil, prevents evaporation, and keeps the roots cool in warmer temperatures. Use from 2 to 5 centimetres of pine bark mulch to protect the roots from UV damage and drying out. 

Fertilising
Shampoo Ginger benefits from occasional feeding with a balanced fertiliser, especially during the growing season.

Apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months of our slow-release all-plant fertiliser. The roots will absorb what they need

Pruning
Trim dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy and encourage new growth.

 

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