Propagation
Division of the rhizome during spring is the normal method of propagation. Plant the shoot buds upwards at a depth of 40mm (1? in) in a pot and place it in a warm semi-shaded position and apply slow release fertilise and keep moist. Plant out when established.

Sow fresh seeds in containers during spring.

MedicinallyGinger is used internally for respiratory ailments or for travel sickness and hangovers. The external application of the oil is used for spasmodic pain, rheumatism, lumbago, menstrual cramps and sprains.

Note:
Dried ground Ginger is used for food, confectionery and soft drink flavouring. The fresh raw ginger Zingiber officinale(green ginger) may be eaten to stimulate appetite or mixed in curries, chutneys, meat or fish dishes and helps in digestion. Pickled Ginger (gari) is used for flavouring sushi and other Japanese foods.


Botanic information
Leaf: The dull green lanceolate leaves have a petiole that sheathes the stem and are arranged horizontally. The apex is acute and the leaf is up to 18mm (ľin) wide.

Flower: The small tubulate flowers have a purple lip that is dotted in yellow and are accompanied by waxy bracts and are arranged in a dense terminal spike that appears during summer.

Fruit: The small 3-valve indehiscent capsule is globular (berry-like) and contains numerous tiny seeds that have a short viability period and the plant is commonly reproduced vegetatively.