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Alpinia officinarumAlpinia officinarum
Alpinia officinarum
Alpinia officinarumAlpinia officinarumAlpinia officinarumOverview
Alpinia officinarum, known as lesser galangal, is a plant in the ginger family, cultivated in Southeast Asia. It originated in China, where its name ultimately derives. It can grow 1.
Updated by lebachungtdh@gmail.com · 10/15/2026
5 to 2 m high, with long leaves and reddish-white flowers. The rhizomes, known as galangal, are valued for their sweet spicy flavor and aromatic scent. These are used throughout Asia in curries and perfumes, and were previously used widely in Europe.
Updated by lebachungtdh@gmail.com · 10/15/2026
They are also used as a herbal remedy.
Updated by lebachungtdh@gmail.com · 10/15/2026
Life cycle
From seed to productRhizome planting
Propagated by **rhizome**: divide healthy rhizomes into sections with 2–3 buds, trim the roots and plant in loose, moist soil.
Sprouting
Buds on the rhizome sprout, emerge from the soil and form new roots within 2–4 weeks.
Growth & flowering
The plant blooms with **white flowers striped pink, April–June**; pollination is by insects and wind.
New rhizomes & harvest
Foliage dies back and reserves move into the underground storage organ; **2–3-year-old rhizomes dug in autumn–winter**.
Uses
- These are used throughout Asia in curries and perfumes, and were previously used widely in Europe.
- They are also used as a herbal remedy.
Habitat & conservation
Alpinia officinarum, known as lesser galangal, is a plant in the ginger family, cultivated in Southeast Asia. It originated in China, where its name ultimately derives.
Conservation
Alpinia officinarum has not been assessed by the IUCN Red List (NE). As a medicinal plant, it benefits from sustainable collection and propagation to protect wild genetic resources.
References
- 1Wikipedia – Alpinia officinarum — Wikipedia,
- 2Kew POWO – Alpinia officinarum — Plants of the World Online (Kew),
- 3Wikidata – Q1281083 — Wikidata,