Introduction Globba schomburgkii, commonly known as Dancing Girl Ginger or Fairy Ginger, is a species of flowering plant in the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). It's a tropical perennial herb native to Southeast Asia, particularly regions like India, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and southern China. The plant gets its evocative common name from its unique flowers, which hang from a slender stem and sway in the breeze, resembling dancing figures. These plants are appreciated for their ornamental value and are a popular addition to tropical and subtropical gardens. Names in Different Countries While "Dancing Girl Ginger" is a widely recognized name in English, this plant has other names depending on the region:
China: 双翅舞花姜 (Shuāng Chì Wǔ Huā Jiāng)
Thailand: Khamin phi (ขมิ้นผี), which translates to "turmeric of the spirits," reflecting its traditional medicinal and spiritual uses.
Laos: Nèng nou (ແໜ່ງໜູ)
Terminology
To understand the plant's description, it helps to know some botanical terms:
Rhizome: A horizontal, underground stem that produces roots and shoots. In Globba schomburgkii, the rhizome is small and conical.
Bulbils: Small, detachable, bulb-like structures that form on the plant. These are a form of asexual reproduction and are a key characteristic of this species. The bulbils can fall off and grow into new plants, making it a prolific spreader.
Inflorescence: The entire flower cluster on the stem. In this species, the inflorescence is decurved (curved downward).
Bracts: Modified leaves that are part of the flower structure. Globba schomburgkii has both sterile, green lower bracts and fertile, orange-yellow upper bracts.
Staminodes: Sterile stamens (the male reproductive part of a flower). In Globba schomburgkii, the staminodes are petal-like and contribute to the "dancing girl" appearance.
Filaments: The stalk-like part of a stamen that holds the anther.
Availability
Globba schomburgkii is readily available for purchase from specialty plant nurseries, particularly those that focus on tropical and subtropical flora. It can be found as live plants, rhizome divisions, or as bulbils, which are easy to grow. The bulbils are often sold in packs for planting. Due to its dormant cycle in colder climates, the rhizomes and bulbils are typically available for sale from late spring to early summer.
External Look
The plant typically grows to a height of 30-60 cm. Its overall appearance is lush and tropical.
Rhizome and Roots: The underground rhizome is small and conical, with numerous fleshy, white, spindle-shaped root tubers.
Stem and Leaves: The stem is slender and fleshy. The leaves are arranged in two ranks (distichous) and are oblong-lanceolate with pointed tips. The upper surface of the leaves is green and smooth, while the lower surface is minutely hairy and can be purple, especially on the lower leaves.
Inflorescence and Flowers: The most striking feature is the pendulous, terminal inflorescence. It has a slender, green stalk from which several small, orange-yellow flowers hang. The flowers are arranged in small clusters called cincinni. The long, curved filaments and petal-like staminodes give the flowers their distinctive "dancing girl" shape, and they can sway in the slightest breeze. The flowers bloom sequentially, providing a long flowering period. The inflorescence also produces numerous spherical bulbils at the base of the bracts, which are a key feature for propagation.
Healing Properties and Uses While widely known for its ornamental appeal, Globba schomburgkii has traditional uses in some cultures, particularly in Southeast Asia.
Healing Properties: In some traditional practices, particularly in Thailand, a decoction made from the rhizomes is believed to have medicinal properties. It is used as a fever reducer, a blood cleanser, and is applied topically to wounds.
Other Uses: The plant is primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant for gardens, containers, and for use as cut flowers due to its long-lasting and unique blooms.
Advantages
Ornamental Value: The unique, "dancing" flowers provide a whimsical and beautiful focal point in a garden.
Easy to Grow: It is known as one of the easiest gingers to cultivate, especially in warm, humid climates.
Self-Propagating: The plant multiplies quickly through its bulbils, making it easy to share with others or fill a garden space.
Long Blooming Period: The flowers bloom sequentially for several months, providing continuous visual interest.
Using Way
Propagation: The most common way to grow this plant is from its bulbils or by division of the rhizome.
Bulbils: Plant the small, spherical bulbils directly into well-drained, rich soil. They will sprout and grow into new plants.
Rhizome Division: Divide the rhizome and plant a section with a growing point in the soil.
Cultivation: Globba schomburgkii thrives in filtered shade or light shade. It prefers moist, well-drained soil. During its growing season in warmer months, it requires consistent watering. In colder climates, the plant is deciduous, dying back to its rhizome in the winter. During this dormant period, it should be kept dry to prevent rot.
Conclusion
Globba schomburgkii is a captivating and enchanting member of the ginger family. Its common name, "Dancing Girl Ginger," perfectly captures the delightful movement of its unique orange-yellow flowers. Beyond its beauty, it's a remarkably easy plant to grow and propagate, making it a favored choice for gardeners in tropical and subtropical regions. With its traditional uses in folk medicine and its powerful self-propagating ability, this charming plant is more than just a decorative feature; it's a resilient and rewarding addition to any collection.
