Photo Credit: MG Theresa Davidson

This beautiful plant caught my eye a year ago while driving through my neighborhood. It looked so much like a bunch of purple tulips, I had to stop for a longer look. It finished blooming so I forgot about it until I happened upon it recently at a local garden center. I was mildly surprised to find out it is a member of the ginger family, and not surprised at all that I was taking one home with me.  

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Siam tulip, Curcuma alismatifolia, is a rhizomatous tropical perennial. It is hardy in zones 8-10 but can be lifted and overwintered or grown indoors. Thailand is its native home. For many years Thailand was referred to as Siam, hence the name Siam tulip. The plants do well in summer temperatures and high humidity. Provide extra moisture to avoid the plant completely drying out. Planted in part or full sun, it will reach about two feet tall. The lance-shaped leaves sometimes have a red line down the middle adding interest when it is not blooming. It is a repeat bloomer producing inflorescences in colors of white, pink, or purple, June through August. The plants go dormant during winter months.

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Photo credit:  licensed from athapet/ Adobe Stock