Kaempferia pulchra 'Marble Variegated' is a low‑growing perennial in the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) native to southern Thailand and northern Peninsular Malaysia. This cultivar is particularly noted for its broadly ovate leaves marked with striking marble‑pattern variegation in silver, light green and dark green, often with reddish‑bronze hues in emerging foliage. The foliage forms neat clumps of 15–30 cm in height and spread, making it perfect for growing indoors. Though it does flower, producing pale lavender‑purple blooms close to the soil in summer, its visual appeal lies primarily in its patterned leaves.
Native to: Southern Thailand to northern Peninsular Malaysia.
Water: Keep the soil evenly moist during the active season. Water again when the top ~2–3 cm becomes dry; do not allow soil to become soggy or bone‑dry. Reduce watering slightly during dormancy, letting soil dry a bit more between waterings, but never fully dry.
Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal. It can handle a little gentle morning or late afternoon sun, but avoid any harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch or curl leaves.
Humidity: Prefers high humidity of 60–80%; in the UK this often requires supplementing via a humidity tray, regular misting, or placement in a bathroom. Its size makes it suitable for terrariums if you wish to maintain consistently high humidity.
Temperature: Thrives between 18–28 °C and should not fall below ~15 °C. In winter, keep it indoors in a warm spot. Dormancy is triggered by cooler temperatures and shorter light, but growth returns when conditions warm .