Torch Ginger flowers are the buds that grow at the end of tall, straight stalks. When young, the shape and structure of the flower closely resembles a flaming torch and when in full bloom the petals are waxy and deep pink with paler margin. Cut from its stalk before the bracts (specialized petals) bloom, Torch Ginger flowers have an exotic, sweet, flowery, and piquant flavor.

Seasons Growth

Torch Ginger flowers are in bloom during the late spring and through the summer. In tropical climates Torch Ginger flowers are available year-round.

Geography

Torch Ginger flowers are found throughout Malaysia and in the Philippines as well as surrounding areas. Botanically known as Etlingera Elatior, they are called Waxflowers for the plant’s waxy looking petals. 

Current Facts

Torch Ginger flowers are related to ginger, cardamom and turmeric, though they do not produce the same edible roots. Known as ‘bunga kantan’ in its home region of Malyasia, the bud is often sliced or shredded and is an indispensable ingredient in Malay cuisine where it is used as a spice. The torch ginger lily (Etlingera elatior) is a showy addition to the tropical landscape, as it is a large plant with a variety of unusual, colorful blooms. Torch ginger plant information says the plant, an herbaceous perennial, grows in areas where temperatures fall no lower than 50 F.

In Malaysia, Torch Ginger flowers are essential to dishes like assam laksa, a dish of noodles in a spicy fish broth and nasi kerabu, an herbed rice dish. Torch Ginger flowers are typically eaten raw, sliced or chopped and served as a garnish. 

Planting and Caring for Torch Ginger Plants

Growing torch ginger is possible in a range of soil types. A major problem when growing torch ginger plants is potassium deficiency. Potassium is necessary for the correct uptake of water, which is necessary for the optimum growth of this large plant.

Add potassium to the soil before growing torch gingers by working it into unplanted beds to about a foot deep. Organic means of adding potassium include the use of greensand, kelp or granite meal. Test the soil. When growing these plants in established beds, fertilize with a food that is high in potassium. This is the third number on the fertilizer ratio displayed on the packaging. Once the potassium is right in the soil, watering, an important part of learning how to grow torch ginger successfully will be more beneficial.

Health Benefits

Torch Ginger is a rather peculiar plant that is full of wax until it is cut where the bud releases an aromatic, floral, grassy fragrance. Incorporated with your everyday meals, the intake of raw ginger can help in a variety of ways which include reducing diabetes and hypertension.  For women, consuming it with the ginger’s bitter leaves can help relieve postpartum flatulence.

The ginger root itself has many healing properties. Being high in antioxidants, it can possibly help prevent some forms of cancers. The antiviral herb can be used as a decongestant and expectorant to fight respiratory problems and sinus infections. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help those who are suffering from arthritis. The plant helps to relieve indigestion, alleviates intestinal cramps, gastrointestinal problems, and reduce nausea (including morning sickness). It is also believed to be a natural libido enhancer, and help treat a loss of appetite.

Culinary Recipes

Torch Ginger Sauce

Serve this exotic pink dipping sauce with a platter of grilled seafood as an appetiser or with fresh oysters, lemon wedges and a glass of bubbly.

Penang

The long-stemmed bud of the ginger flower looks spear-like before it blossoms into a waxy-petalled ginger flower, its pale pinky-red inflorescence resembling a torch. Though technically a herb, this member of the perennial ginger family is often referred to as a spice.