Ginger Lilly is a genus of perennial herb with aromatic rhizomes in the ginger family and native to tropical Africa and tropical South America. The genus contains up 80 species that typically have leaves with a fragrant gingerly scent. The inflorescences are basal (produced from the base of the plant) or terminal (on ends of the stems) with colorful bracts that are often hard and waxy, resembling a pineapple. They can range from 5 inches to 1 foot tall. The foliage is light green and wavy on the edges with a very gingery scent when crushed. Ginger Lilly species are a tropical plant and are not cold hardy. Ginger Lilly species are commonly used as houseplants or in an interiorscapes. In appropriate tropical climates, they can be cultivated as herbaceous ornamentals outdoors. Ginger Lilly species are often used for spices and herbs. However, scientists have determined that the plants may contain poisonous compounds and consumption of the plant is highly discouraged.
Curated pairwise relationships between this plant and others in the library — who feeds
whom, who competes, who confuses the pests. Green reads as a good pairing, red as one to avoid.
No curated interactions recorded for this species yet.
Also noted by NC State
Related species the NC State Plant Toolbox flags for this plant — look-alikes to tell
apart, and plants that play a similar role in a planting. Ones we carry in the library are linked.
CAUSES ONLY LOW TOXICITY IF EATEN. SKIN IRRITATION MINOR OR LASTING ONLY FOR A FEW MINUTES. Poisonous through ingestion or dermatitis. (Poison parts: Leaves, stems, roots). Symptoms may include skin and eye irritations upon contact with cell sap; cardiac effects upon ingestion.