A bit of the tropics in backyard

One whiff of tropical air infused with the spicy-sweet fragrance of flowering gingers can drive a gardener to declare, “I must grow one!” But only certain members of the ginger family will grow, let alone bloom, outside the tropics.

This groundbreaking guide celebrates the hardy (versus cold-tender) gingers that hail from temperate zones and high altitudes, plants as lush and powerfully scented as their tropical kin but conditioned to cooler habitats. Tropical gingers that will adapt are included.

An enticing array is pictured lavishly and described in detail from A to Z: Alpinia caerulea has indigo-colored berries. Hedychium species are prized for fragrant gardens. Ground-hugging Kaempferia species are “first choice” for deep shade. Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) and root ginger (Zingiber officinale) will tempt the adventurous.

Some plants are easier to find than others, many only by mail-order. But potential collectors won’t be left longing: The author provides lists of where to see and buy gingers, along with referrals to two online discussion groups.

-- Lili Singer