What Is a Ginger Plant?
Ginger is grown and harvested for it root system, or rhizomes. This plant is available in both evergreen and deciduous varieties. There is both a culinary (Zingiber officinale) and a wild type (Asarum canadense) of ginger plant.AboutGinger is a perennial plant that features a thick root system that is harvested from the plant and used as a flavoring agent in many dishes.GrowthThese plants mature to a height of 6 to 10 inches and width of 12 to 24 inches.ClimateGinger plants act as ground covers in shady, wooded areas. These plants thrive in well-drained soils in partial or fully shaded areas. This plant prefers growing in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 8.HistoryThe root of the ginger plant has been used as an ingredient in Chinese, Japanese and Indian cuisine since the 1500s. Today, ginger roots are available in retail grocery stores and a common ingredient in many recipes.Medical UsesThe roots from the ginger plant have been used to treat a variety of symptoms, including arthritis, dy