PlantFiles: Fingerroot, Temu Kunci
Boesenbergia rotunda

Native to Southern China and S.E. Asia, the roots of this interesting tropical ginger are used as a spice.

The plant is tropical and has a natural dormant period during the 'dry season'. It can be difficult to grow outside of the tropics as the tubers are especially prone to rotting during cold wet weather when the plant is dormant. Sharp drainage and much reduced watering during winter months may help to over-winter.

I grow my specimens in large ceramic pots in a free draining potting mix of coarse propagation sand, coconut peat and well rotted compost. I feed them with soluble fertiliser and/or blood and bone whilst actively growing. Daily watering is recommended during hot, dry weather.