About Shell Ginger
Shell ginger is a tropical perennial with yellow and green striped leaves, and drooping stems of white and pink flowers with a shell-like appearance. These sweet-smelling flowers sprout from rhizomes that look and smell similar to culinary ginger, their close relative. Some plants have been known to grow up to ten feet tall, though in northern areas where plants are grown as an annual, they generally top out at 3 or 4 feet.
When working with this plant, it is important to know that the oils released from cutting or pruning can cause irritation to the eyes, skin and nasal passages.
Common Names:
- Shell Ginger
- Light Galangal
- Pink Porcelain Lily
- Shell Flower
Shell Ginger at the Akron Zoo
Shell Ginger can be found growing in Legends of the Wild, Lehner Family Foundation Wild Asia and in seasonal annual displays throughout the zoo.