Lush, tropical foliage with striking gold-and-green variegation — a bold accent for shade gardens, patios, and bright indoor spaces.

Variegated ginger is a dramatic, clump-forming perennial grown for its large, arching leaves boldly streaked in creamy yellow and green. In warm climates it can produce pendant chains of pearly, shell-like flowers with a sweet fragrance; indoors or in cooler regions it’s prized primarily for its foliage. Often sold as “variegated shell ginger,” this plant brings instant tropical texture and color to shady borders, poolside plantings, and containers. It thrives in bright, filtered light with consistent moisture and humidity.

Also commonly known as variegated shell ginger (Alpinia zerumbet ‘Variegata’); cultural guidance below reflects typical care for variegated ginger types.

• Botanical NameGinger Variegated
• Common NameGinger (Variegated Shell Ginger)

• Size & GrowthIn-ground 6–10 ft tall × 4–6 ft wide in warm zones; 3–5 ft in containers/indoors; upright, clumping rhizome with arching canes.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 9–11 (protect in 8); frost-tender—foliage damaged near 30°F, rhizomes may survive brief light frost with mulch.
• Foliage TypeBroad, lanceolate leaves with bold cream-yellow variegation; evergreen in frost-free climates, tender perennial elsewhere.
• Bloom TimeLate spring to summer in warm climates; pendant clusters of white/pink, shell-like, fragrant flowers (sparse or none indoors).
• Growth RateModerate to fast in warm, humid conditions with regular water and nutrition.
• Light RequirementsBright, filtered light to part shade; morning sun is ideal; protect from harsh midday sun which can scorch variegated leaves.
• Attracts PollinatorsYes—flowers attract bees and butterflies; occasionally hummingbirds in warm regions.
• Indoor FriendlyExcellent as a bright, indirect-light houseplant; rotate for even growth and maintain humidity.
• Container FriendlyYes—thrives in large containers with rich, well-draining mix and consistent moisture.
• Deer ResistantGenerally deer-resistant; aromatic foliage is not preferred browse.
• Pet WarningConsidered non-toxic; ingestion of any plant material may cause mild GI upset—discourage chewing by pets.
• FragrantYes—blooms are sweetly fragrant; foliage aromatic when bruised.
• Cut FlowerGood for arrangements—both exotic flower sprays and bold foliage are long-lasting in the vase.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Canna, Colocasia/Alocasia (elephant ears), Caladium, Cordyline, Croton, ferns, Hibiscus, Bird of Paradise, Hostas in bright shade where hardy.

• Planting InstructionsPlant in spring after frost. Set the crown at soil level (do not bury deeply). Space clumps 3–4 ft apart. Water in well and mulch 2–3 in to conserve moisture.
• Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist but never waterlogged. Allow the top 1 inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings; increase water during hot spells.
• Soil TypeRich, well-draining loam amended with compost; pH slightly acidic to neutral. For containers, use peat/coco + compost + perlite or fine bark for aeration.
• HumidityHigh humidity preferred (50–60%+). Indoors, group plants, use a pebble tray, or run a humidifier to prevent crispy leaf tips.
• Pruning InstructionsRemove spent flower stalks and old, tattered canes at the base after flowering or late winter. Trim brown leaf tips. Divide clumps every 3–4 years to rejuvenate.
• Winter CareZones 9–11: mulch and protect from cold winds. Zone 8 or colder: grow in containers; bring indoors before frost (keep 55–70°F), reduce watering, provide bright light.
• Planting DepthSet rhizome buds just at or slightly below the surface; cover with no more than 0.5–1 in of soil. Ensure excellent drainage around the crown.
• FertilizationFeed spring through summer every 4–6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) or slow-release granules; supplement with compost. Pause feeding in late summer.
• Special CareProtect from harsh midday sun and strong winds. Indoors, rinse dust from leaves and rotate the pot. Watch for spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids; treat early. Repot when rootbound.

• 
  Best Light

  Bright, indirect light or morning sun with afternoon shade for crisp variegation.
• 
  Water

  Consistently moist—never soggy. Increase frequency in heat, reduce in winter indoors.
• 
  Climate

  USDA 9–11 outdoors; grow as a container or houseplant in cooler regions.

Tip: Leaf tip browning usually indicates low humidity or inconsistent moisture—raise humidity and keep soil evenly moist.