Native to the South Pacific, Malaysia and Indonesia. Red Ginger is widely distributed across tropical regions and is cultivated for its attractive inflorescence and lush foliage. The habit of Alpinia purpurata is that of a rhizomatous perennial herb, with thick, upright stems that can grow up to several feet in height. New stalks sprout from the rhizome and new growth emerges from the bracts, which can then be planted. The vibrant, deep red bracts surround the small, white, inconspicuous flowers. These eye-catching bracts can last for several weeks, making Red Ginger a popular choice for floral arrangements and tropical landscapes. Probably the most popular tropical cut flower from Colombia. The plant can bloom in full shade and poor soil. Cultivated below 5,000 feet in Colombia. Photographed in the Valley of Cacua, Colombia.