Beehive Ginger 'Early Yellow' (Zingiber spectabile 'Early Yellow'): Early-Blooming Tropical Cone Ginger

Botanical Profile

Family: Zingiberaceae
Genus: Zingiber (zing-ee-ber)
Species: spectabile (speck-TAB-ih-lee)
Cultivar: 'Early Yellow'

Description

'Early Yellow' is a selection of beehive ginger that blooms earlier in the season than the species, with cones that emerge a clear, bright yellow and age to golden orange. The plant habit is similar: 4–6 feet tall with glossy, lance-shaped leaves. The cone-shaped inflorescences emerge from the base on short stalks, composed of waxy, overlapping bracts. Small yellow flowers peek out between bracts.

Cultivation

Requires tropical conditions (zones 10–11) or heated greenhouse. Rich, well-drained, humus-rich soil. Dappled shade to filtered sun. Consistent moisture and high humidity. Feed monthly during active growth. Rhizomes go dormant if cool/dry.

Uses

The early bloom extends the ornamental season. Cones are long-lasting cut flowers for tropical arrangements. Primarily grown as a specimen ornamental for conservatories and tropical gardens.