Dormant rhizomes available to order now for spring delivery. Orders will be shipped out based on your region’s last average freeze date. If a specific date is preferred please mention in your order comments.
Curcuma sp ‘Emperor’ – A Gingerwood Nursery introduction. I introduced this Thai Lucky Plant to the US back in the early 90’s. Fortunately it came with its Thai name which appropriately translates to ‘Emperor.’ It was the first and still most common variegated Curcuma. Originally it shared the misidentified species name of Curcuma petiolata that was applied to the common “Hidden Ginger.” Once the identity of the true Curcuma petiolata was discovered, this and the “Hidden Ginger” have been demoted to Curcuma sp. Neither has been officially identified yet, but they belong to the polyploidy ancient hybrid complex of Curcuma used for medicinal, edible, or cultural purposes. They could be cultivars of Curcuma longa (Turmeric) but taxonomy of this group is extremely difficult!! (Please read the Curcuma article for a better understanding of these issues).
Aside from naming issues, this is an exceptionally easy plant to grow. Too vigorous for some, as it does spread well due to the branching rhizome habit. It does best in bright shade to medium sun where is will produce very light pink blooms somewhat hidden amongst the foliage. The variegated foliage is also great to use cut in arrangements (as are most large leaf curcuma). Grows to 3 feet in medium sun. Hardy in Zone 8 and above. See ‘Snowdrift’ for a new more variegated sport of this.