Alpinia Formosana ‘Pinstripe Ginger’ Plant Care Tips

Alpinia Formosana – Pinstripe Lighting & Position

Alpinia will appreciate a position that gets lots of bright indirect light, and even a little dappled sun occasionally wouldn’t hurt. Avoid extended exposure to the hot direct sun though or the leaves may burn.

Alpinia Formosana – Pinstripe Watering

It’s important to keep up a regular watering routine. In summer you want to keep the soil moist but not soggy. To monitor this, you can use your finger to poke into the top 5 cm of potting mix and feel the soil moisture level before watering. If it feels particularly wet, let it dry out for longer. Overwatering can lead to fungal issues or root rot. Try watering once a week, but always test the soil first to see if watering is necessary. During winter, when the plant isn’t in an active growing phase you should reduce watering frequency and use tepid/room temperature water. 

As with all plants, drainage is essential. Ensure that whatever vessel your plant is in, there are sufficient holes in the bottom to allow excess water to freely drain from the pot and away from the plant’s roots.

Alpinia Formosana – Pinstripe Humidity

Alpinia will appreciate a moderate level of humidity to prevent her leaves from browning at the edges. Some tips for increasing humidity include grouping plants together, placing pots on a pebble tray, or if you want to go all out – buying a small humidifier online and placing it in amongst your plant friends! 

N.b. misting with a spray bottle will only improve humidity temporarily, and if done excessively can lead to fungal issues. Misting should only be done occasionally and is most effective as part of your leaf-cleaning routine. (Mist and then gently wipe leaves with a cloth to clear away dust from the leaf surface.)

Alpinia Formosana – Pinstripe Fertiliser

 Feed with liquid fertiliser fortnightly over the warm, growing period and not at all over the cooler winter months.

We recommend using our Plant Food available here. 

Alpinia Formosana – Pinstripe Extra Tips

 Once a month you can wipe down the plant’s leaves using a damp cloth to clean away any dust that has collected and may be preventing the leaves from breathing. It’s completely normal for older fronds, typically around the base of the plant, to fade in colour or brown off as they age. Prune off any damaged or dying fronds using a sharp pair of scissors or secateurs so that the plant can put more energy into the newer, healthier growth.

Alpinia Formosana – Pinstripe Toxicity

Alpinia Formosana is not toxic.

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