Family: Zingiberaceae

Alpinia luteocarpa, commonly known as bamboo ginger or red bamboo ginger, is a striking member of the ginger family prized for its bold foliage and showy appearance. Native to the Philippines, this ornamental plant features upright canes that resemble bamboo and are topped with lush green leaves. The plant is best known for its brilliant red bracts, which provide a dramatic contrast in gardens and landscapes. Its tropical look makes it a popular choice for adding structure and color to shaded or partially shaded areas.

In the Hawaiian Islands, Alpinia luteocarpa is only found in cultivation and has not been reported to spread into natural areas. While it adds beauty to gardens, there are no records of this species becoming invasive or displacing native plants in Hawaiʻi. Gardeners who enjoy bamboo-like foliage without the aggressive growth of true bamboo often find this ginger to be an excellent alternative for ornamental use.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Other Alpinia species have become invasive weeds
  
• Possibly Shade-tolerant
  
• Reproduces by seeds and rhizomes
  
• Seeds, if produced, possibly dispersed by birds or ants and intentionally by people
  
• May be able to resprout from cutting of rhizomes
  
• Limited information reduces accuracy of risk predication

Low Risk Traits:

• No reports of invasiveness or negative impacts
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Ornamental and medicinal uses