Alpinia rugosa is a rhizomatous tropical ginger species notable for its deeply rippled, leathery leaves arranged in opposite ranks. The foliage is dark green with a quilted texture, and the undersides are often slightly fuzzy. Mature plants can reach up to 90 cm in height and spread 60–90 cm wide. In spring, it produces upright flower spikes bearing clusters of white flowers with pink tubular calyces and orange lips.
This plant is suitable for indoor cultivation in the UK, provided its environmental needs are met. Its preference for high humidity and warm temperatures makes it ideal for placement in naturally humid areas of the home.
Native to: Alpinia rugosa is endemic to Baoting County in southern Hainan Island, China. It naturally occurs in shaded, wet valley forests at elevations of approximately 600–800 metres.
Water: Maintain consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Water when the top 2–3 cm of the soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
Light: Prefers partial to full shade. Bright, indirect light is ideal; avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Humidity: Requires high humidity levels, ideally between 60% and 80%. Increase humidity by using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray with water, or grouping it with other plants.
Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. Protect from temperatures below 15°C and avoid sudden temperature drops. Keep away from cold drafts and heating vents to prevent stress.
We offer free mainland delivery on all orders over £60
All plants are shipped using express next day services with DPD, UPS, Parcelforce and Royal Mail.
We offer economy shipping (3-5 day dispatch) and standard delivery (1-3 day dispatch).
For guaranteed next day dispatch please selected Express shipping at checkout available at an additional cost.
For a full breakdown of shipping prices please see our help center here.
Winter shipping is available in the winter months at an additional cost and includes heatpacks and thermal insulation where necessary.
For more information, please see our comprehensive shipping FAQs
We pride ourselves on the love and care with give our plants. Our entire team are plant obsessives at heart and so we go above and beyond to care for the plants we have in stock.
That said, plants are living beings and may differ slightly from the photo provided unless otherwise stated. Small leaf imperfections may be present and won't be compensated for.
Some plants such as Begonia may suffer slight leaf melt when shipped. This is normal and nothing to be concerned about.
All our plants are stores and/or grown in our nursery under LED lighting so they are in active growth when arriving with you.
The conditions in our nursery are a minimum of 60% humidity and 19C year round.
If you have any questions about caring for your plants or setting up your home for success, don't hesitate to contact us.
See behind the box with these awesome unboxing videos from some of our favourite Youtubers.
We've tested and refined our packaging across tens of thousands of orders over the years. Our streamlined system uses minimal materials while ensuring maximum protection.
Plus, every plant comes with a 7-day live arrival guarantee—so if the unexpected happens, we've got you covered!
We're a team of plant enthusiasts who understand the joy of receiving a new plant. That’s why we go the extra mile to ensure every order brings the same excitement.
Our packaging process is designed with quality control at its core—each plant is carefully inspected by hand before shipping to guarantee it arrives healthy, pest-free, and in perfect condition.
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