Also known as the Torch Ginger, Red Wax Ginger and Pineapple Ginger, Tapeinochilos ananassae (syn. Tapeinochilos queenslandiae) is found from North East Queensland to New Guinea and Indonesia in rainforest areas. It is grown mainly for the flowers, however the foliage also adds a tropical look to the garden, and if you are growing this plant, you probably are in the tropics.
Use it to underplant taller growing plants and allow it to form a natural clump. You will be rewarded year round either with the foliage or the flowers.
The highly ornamental flower stem emerges before the foliage in a strong stem which makes this an excellent cut flower.
Foliage emerges later and will reach over 3m in height. Also known as the Indonesian Wax Ginger.
How To grow Tapeinochilos ananassae – Basic Care
This is a species that requires a tropical climate and constantly moist humus rich soil. Tapeinocheilos ananassae can be grown in sub tropical areas if in a warm position with adequate water and good humidity.
Light Requirements
This is an understory plant and as such has specific light requirements
- To flower well it needs 8–10 hours of indirect or filtered sunlight daily
- Strong midday sun can easily cause leaf scorch.
- If growing as indoor plants you will need artificial light or Grow Lights.
Watering
- This is a plant that requires consistent moisture
- Spring & Summer (growing season):
- Water every 7–10 days
- Let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry slightly between waterings
- Winter (dormant period):
- Water every 2–3 weeks
- Let the top 2–3 inches of soil dry slightly before watering again
- When watering:
- A deep watering is best.
- Allow the soil to dry just a little before watering again
- Make sure the pot has good drainage holes
- Tapeinochilos ananassae requires humid conditions.
In dry climates you will need to mist spray regularly. Indoors try a humidifier.
Propagation
Easiest by division of the rhizomes of established clumps.
Propagation is also from seed sometimes found for sale online or best from rhizomes from reputable suppliers.
Tapeinochilos ananassae – Summary Information
- Height – Will reach 2 – 3 metres in height.
- Spread – will form a clump over time.
- Position – Dappled shade.
- Flowering period – Year round in good conditions.
- Climate – Tropical.
- Soil – Humus rich, moist
- Foliage – Mid green broad and strap like.
- Flowers – Appear on terminal leafless shoots, bright red and closer to the ground than the foliage..