Common Name: Peacock Ginger
Botanical Name: Kaempferia elegans ‘Shazam’
The Kaempferia ‘Fanciful Peacock Shazam’ has foliage that gives the most mesmerizing look. Plus, it loves the shade, so you can keep it in your house! It’s the perfect houseplant to lighten up your indoor space!
Light
Peacock Ginger plants need bright, indirect light, so ensure your place it in a location that gives bright but filtered light. It is preferred that you put your plant near an east or west facing window. Never allow your plant in direct sunlight because it can lead to leaf burn. This plant is able to tolerate lower light conditions, however it might not grow as many flowers. Make sure you are watching your plant and paying attention how it responds to the light.
Water
Ensure you are watering your Peacock Ginger plant thoroughly. We suggest you to water your plant every 5-7 days. During the winter months, you can reduce how often you are watering this plant. Also, when the temperature is higher, you might need to water it more often.
Soil
Your Peacock plant prefers slightly moist soil that drains well. A mixture that contains a combination of organic matter, such as peat moss or compost, along with inorganic materials like perlite or vermiculite, are best to help give good drainage. Try to avoid your plant in any compacted soil. That can affect the correct drainage your plant needs. The pH level range for your Peacock plant should be of 5.5 to 7.0. You can check this range by using a soil pH test kit.
Temperature
Kaempferia elegans ‘Shazam’ thrives most in temperatures that are between 65°F (18°C) and 85°F (29°C). Do not allow your plant in temperatures that are below 60 degrees because they are sensitive to cold and could become damaged. Always monitor your plant to make sure that the temperatures are suitable.
Humidity
Peacock Ginger prefers humidity levels that range from 50% to 70%. High humidity levels help replicate a Kaempferia elegans natural habitat. To increase humidity levels, you can mist the plant, group plants together, use a humidifier, or provide a tray with water and pebbles. Ensure you are monitoring how your plant reacts to the humidity levels its being provided. If you see the leaves of your plant turning yellow, it can mean that the humidity levels are too high.
Fertilizer
Fertilize your Peacock Ginger plant every four to six weeks during the active growing season. You should dilute the fertilizer based on the package’s directions. This plant does not usually need heavy feeding, so it’s okay to use a more diluted solution than to over-fertilize your plant.
Growth Rate
The mature height that your Peacock Ginger plant is able to grow up to is usually on average, 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm). In the beginning, this plant may take some time to adjust and establish its roots system. However, once acclimated, it will start to grow. This plant grows most during the active growing season, whereas in the winter, growth is much slower.
Pet Friend or Foe
A Peacock Ginger plant is considered non-toxic to pets! Friend!
Pro Tips
- Keep your Peacock Ginger plant away from heating vents or direct exposure to the hot sunlight to avoid leaf burn.
- Observe your plant’s reaction and make any adjustments as needed.
- Be careful to not over-water your plant, as this can lead to root rot.