Curcuma (Siam Tulip)

Curcuma alismatiffolia is an exotic plant that grows from rhizomes and a member of the large ginger family. Native to Thailand or Cambodia, Curcuma has grey-green foliage reaching 3 feet (1 m.) in height. The plant has an upright habit and blooms on a scape rising above the foliage. Blossoms of the Siam tulip appear in late spring through fall, depending on the variety you've planted. These blooms range in shades of pink, red, rose, and even brown. Tiny flowers also appear from the lower bracts, adding extra colour to the Siam tulip plant. Feed the Siam tulip monthly through October, then withhold fertilizer and allow the plant to go dormant during the winter months. Less water is needed when the plant is not growing, but it should not completely dry out. Curcuma may lose much of its foliage during the dormant period but will regrow in spring. Trim off dead or damaged leaves. Repot as needed. Move up one pot size when the plant appears to have outgrown its container. When cultivating Siam tulip as a houseplant, division every few years provides more plants. Cut rhizomes into 2 inch (5 cm.) sections and plant into new containers. Plants and pots sold separately.