Galengal, Alpinia galenga

A tropical rhizomatous plant of the Ginger family, one of four known as Galangal, the others being lengkuas, greater galangal, and blue ginger. The rhizome is used fresh in chunks, or cut into thin slices, mashed and mixed into a paste, and added to Thai curries and soups, and Indonesian rendang. The rhizomes produce stalks of up to 2 metres tall, sometimes bearing red berries. Best outside in a shaded area in the  warmer months, but will need to be brought into a protected area in winter as frost and winter wet will cause the rhizomes to rot. Rich soil such as sandy loam is best., keeping moist but not wet. Priced for a 1 litre pot