Plants: Species

Ginger: Kahili Ginger Hedychium gardnerianum

FAMILY: ZINGIBERACEAE (Ginger Family)

Although it is native to India, kahili ginger Hedychium gardnerianum has a Hawaiian name, as kahilis are the long ceremonial poles decorated with feathers and plumes used by Hawaiian royals. Unfortunately, the beautiful ginger has become a pest in Hawaii and other places it was introduced, including South Africa and New Zealand, where the invasive ginger displaces native plant species. San Diegans can grow kahili ginger with a clear conscience, however. It's not humid enough here for the plant to spread out of control on its own.