The hidden underground architecture of the world's most lush tropical plants

Gardening · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Beyond their vibrant petals and massive leaves, a single botanical secret connects bananas, gingers, and bird of paradise. Discover the fascinating world of the Zingiberales, an order of plants that use modified underground stems to dominate sub-tropical landscapes with unparalleled colour and texture.

The Zingiberales is a vast botanical order comprising roughly 2,600 species spread across 70 genera and eight families. While many people recognise individual members like the Musaceae (banana family), the order is unified by a specific growth mechanism: they are all rhizomatous. This means their branches emerge from modified underground stems known as rhizomes. Most are herbaceous perennials with little to no woody tissue, often remaining evergreen in wetter, tropical environments.

For the gardener, these plants offer a spectrum of resilience. The Strelitziaceae family, which includes the iconic Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae), possesses tougher foliage that can withstand hot spots and light frost. In contrast, Canna lilies (Cannaceae) thrive in dappled shade or sun but are highly sensitive to frost. To protect Cannas in colder climates, gardeners can dig up their rhizomes before the first frost to store them in warmth.

The 'ginger' group provides a diverse array of textures, including the Marantaceae (prayer plants), Heliconiaceae (heliconias), and the large Zingiberaceae family. A standout specimen is the beehive ginger (Zingiber spectabile), which flourishes in shade and serves as an excellent cut flower due to its long-lasting, colourful bracts. To maintain a healthy collection, Paul Hoffman of the Roma Street Parklands suggests dividing rhizomes every few years to promote abundance. Success relies on rich, free-draining soil and a controlled release of fertiliser, ensuring that these lush, large-leaved plants have enough space to display their full architectural potential.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

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