Alpinia caerulea ‘Red Back’ is an Australian native tropical ginger known for its bold foliage, with deep green leaves and distinctive red to burgundy undersides. It forms attractive clumps and suits shaded to semi-shaded positions in tropical and subtropical gardens. In warmer months it produces striking blue berries, adding seasonal interest and making it a standout feature in native or rainforest-style plantings.
Light requirement: Part shade to full shade; tolerates morning sun
Water requirement: Moderate
Watering frequency: Regular during establishment; keep soil consistently moist
Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter
Skill level: Beginner
Growth rate: Moderate
Suitable for container gardens: Yes, suitable for large pots in shaded positions
Mature Height: 1.5–2.5 m
Mature Width: 1–1.5 m
Seasonality: Evergreen
Drought Tolerant: Low to moderate once established
Frost Tolerant: Light frost tolerant once mature
Wind Tolerant: Moderate; prefers sheltered sites
Leaf colour: Green upper surface with red to burgundy underside
Leaf Variegation pattern: No
Size of leaf: 30–60 cm long, lance-shaped
Flower Colour: White to pale yellow
Flower Shape: Loose clusters
Flower Fragrance: Light
Flower Season: Spring to summer
Alpinia caerulea ‘Red Back’ is an Australian native tropical ginger known for its bold foliage, with deep green leaves and distinctive red to burgundy undersides. It forms attractive clumps and suits shaded to semi-shaded positions in tropical and subtropical gardens. In warmer months it produces striking blue berries, adding seasonal interest and making it a standout feature in native or rainforest-style plantings.
Light requirement: Part shade to full shade; tolerates morning sun
Water requirement: Moderate
Watering frequency: Regular during establishment; keep soil consistently moist
Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter
Skill level: Beginner
Growth rate: Moderate
Suitable for container gardens: Yes, suitable for large pots in shaded positions
Mature Height: 1.5–2.5 m
Mature Width: 1–1.5 m
Seasonality: Evergreen
Drought Tolerant: Low to moderate once established
Frost Tolerant: Light frost tolerant once mature
Wind Tolerant: Moderate; prefers sheltered sites
Leaf colour: Green upper surface with red to burgundy underside
Leaf Variegation pattern: No
Size of leaf: 30–60 cm long, lance-shaped
Flower Colour: White to pale yellow
Flower Shape: Loose clusters
Flower Fragrance: Light
Flower Season: Spring to summer