Curcuma australasica – Native Turmeric

A stunning tropical flowering plant, common in the tropics of Australia particularly Cape York, but also growing in Papua New Guinea. It is the native turmeric plant, known as kumbigi to Guugu Yimithirr people of North Queensland, and the roots of the plant can be roasted and eaten. There is a white flowering form found occasionally in the wild.
Grows on rainforest margins and in shaded areas, and the plant dies back to the perennial rhizome in the dry season. Needs rich, well drained soil in the sun. It needs to be grown in a heated greenhouse in the southern parts of Australia, but apparently can be grown in temperate climates in a protected, shady position. If it is knocked down by light frosts, it will resprout once warm weather comes. Often the exotic Indian species C. inodora is sold as the Australian species, however the Indian species is much faster growing with leaves larger than 1m, the leaves having red bands and colouring.

Family : Zingiberaceae
Cultivar Name:
Plant Type : Small shrub, Clumping perennial, Bulb or bulb-like
Width : 1
Flowering Time : Summer
Soil Type : Sandy, Loamy, Sandy loam, Clay loam, Potting mix
Climate Zone : Tropical, Sub-tropical, Warm temperate
Growth Habit : Deciduous, Open foliage, Spreading
Soil Moisture : Well-drained, Moist moderate drainage
Special Uses : Edible, Cut flower, Bog gardens, Playground friendly
Scientific Name: Curcuma australasica
Common Name : Native Turmeric
Height : 1.5
Flower Color : White, Yellow, Pink
pH Level : Neutral
Plant Environment : Low maintenance garden, Courtyard, Container growing, Flower garden
Light : Light shade, Half shade
Lifespan : Perennial
Frost Tolerance : Not frost tolerant
Attracts Wildlife :