Parakaempferia Alba

Parakaempferia Alba Latest News

A new species of ginger, Parakaempferia alba, has been discovered in the Siang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh.

About Parakaempferia Alba

• It is a new species of Zingiberaceae (ginger family).
• It was discovered in the Siang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh.
• The plant was found in the Miglung area of East Siang District at an altitude of 150–400 meters, growing along shaded streambanks in humid, sandy soil. 

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Key Facts about Zingiberaceae

• Zingiberaceae, the ginger family of flowering plants, is the largest family of the order Zingiberales, containing about 56 genera and about 1,300 species. 
• These aromatic herbs grow in moist areas of the tropics and subtropics, including some regions that are seasonably dry.
• Members of the family are perennials that frequently have sympodial (forked) fleshy rhizomes (underground stems). 
• They may grow to 6 metres (20 feet) in height. 
• A few species are epiphytic—i.e., supported by other plants and having aerial roots exposed to the humid atmosphere.
• Many species are economically valuable for their spices and perfume. 
  • The dried thick rhizome of turmeric (Curcuma longa) is commonly ground for culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic uses. 
  • The seeds of Elettaria cardamomum are the source of cardamom. 
  • Ginger is obtained from the fresh or dried rhizomes of Zingiber officinale, and a number of ornamental gingers are grown for their attractive flowers and foliage.
  • Several species of shellflower (Alpinia) are cultivated as ornamentals.

Source: NET