Photo: Octave Fargier · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Red Ginger
Red ginger is an iconic tropical focal formed from a dense cone of glossy, waxy bracts in vivid scarlet or hot pink, held upright on a tall leafy stem. Native to Malaysia and naturalised across the Pacific, it is a workhorse of tropical floristry thanks to an exceptional vase life that can reach three weeks. Its bold, sculptural form anchors large event arrangements, tropical bridal work and hotel installations. Sturdy and forgiving to handle, it delivers maximum drama for a moderate price.
| Family | Zingiberaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Malaysia and the South Pacific (New Caledonia, Maluku) |
| Peak season | June, July, August, September, October |
| Availability | January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December |
| Stem length | 40–90 cm |
| Vase life | 10–21 days |
| Colors | red, pink |
| Price tier | mid |
Cut the thick stem on a sharp angle and place in deep, clean water; red ginger is a heavy drinker and lasts remarkably long when kept hydrated. The colourful part is a cone of waxy bracts rather than true petals, so it withstands handling well. Store above 12C — like all gingers it is chill-sensitive, and cold turns the bracts dark and mushy. Mist the cone occasionally and wipe away any sooty residue for a clean finish.
- •Use a deep vase — it drinks heavily
- •Never refrigerate below 12C
- •Mist the bract cone to keep it glossy
- •Recut the thick stem on a sharp angle
- •Wipe bracts clean of any residue
- •Refresh water every three to four days
Frequently asked questions
When is Red Ginger in season?
Red Ginger peaks in June, July, August, September, October, and florists can usually source it January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December. Availability shifts by region and greenhouse supply.
How long does Red Ginger last in a vase?
Expect 10–21 days with proper conditioning — a clean vase, fresh water every couple of days, flower food, and a cool spot away from ripening fruit and direct heat.
What can I use instead of Red Ginger?
Good substitutes for Red Ginger include Heliconia, Torch Ginger, Anthurium. Match on look, colour and season — our substitute finder ranks the closest alternatives.
What does Red Ginger symbolise?
Red Ginger is associated with strength, passion, wealth, vitality.
How do you care for cut Red Ginger?
Use a deep vase — it drinks heavily
