Parakaempferia synantha Plant Care

Parakaempferia synantha (Parakaempferia synantha) belongs to the Zingiberaceae family within the Parakaempferia genus. Parakaempferia synantha is native to the Assam region of eastern India.

Parakaempferia synantha displays a low rosette, clumping growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 ft. Parakaempferia synantha produces small, colorful bracts with tubular flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 12 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Parakaempferia synantha every 7–10 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established shrubs mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Parakaempferia synantha thrives in filtered sunlight or partial shade. Avoid placing Parakaempferia synantha in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Parakaempferia synantha tolerates temperatures of 65–80°F. Parakaempferia synantha prefers humidity levels of 60–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Loose, well-draining soil with high organic matter content. Good drainage is essential for Parakaempferia synantha to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Parakaempferia synantha every 6 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established shrubs in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with filtered sunlight or partial shade and loose, well-draining soil with high organic matter content. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Parakaempferia synantha is suited to USDA Zone 13b.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped shrubs in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Parakaempferia synantha can spread to about 2 ft (0.5 m) and reach about 2 ft (0 m) tall. Space plants about 2 ft (0.5 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the plant spacing calculator.

Prune Parakaempferia synantha while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the shrub in one year.

Parakaempferia synantha is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 13). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Parakaempferia synantha can be propagated through division of rhizomes.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Parakaempferia synantha is susceptible to spider mites, aphids. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Parakaempferia synantha grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b. It survives winters down to planting zone 13b. Parakaempferia synantha is native to the Assam region of eastern India. In cooler regions, grow Parakaempferia synantha as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.