Alpinia caerulea Atherton

A versatile plant traditionally used by the Aboriginal people for food and crafting. Natively found in the rainforest understories of Northern New South Wales and Southern Queensland – this red leaved variety comes from the Atherton Tableland region near Cairns.
Like other ginger roots, this one may be used in savoury dishes, desserts, jams, marmalades, candies and tea.
Fragrant white flowers appear from late spring to early summer, eventually leaving blue berries that may be picked and eaten straight off the stem. (Spit the seeds out) This plant can grow up to 2m high and 1m wide.
It’s suitable for gaps, pots, borders, narrow poolside beds and mass plantings.