The fragrant blooms begin around mid-summer and continue into fall. The Kaempferia species are collectively called the peacock gingers because of their large, patterned foliage. Many are only 5 to 6 inches tall, and these low-growers make an ideal ground cover for shade and are perfect for pots. Prolific bloomers with decorative, bananalike foliage, Kaempferias thrive in moist, well-draining soil and shade or filtered sun. The flat, single blooms appear late spring throughout the summer.
Most flowers are lavender or white and appear daily.
Kaempferia pulchra is a common species. Snails will nibble on the the succulent leaves of young peacocks. Mature foliage is not as appetizing. Kaempferia rotunda, or resurrection lily, produces purple and white flowers in spring before the silver-patterned foliage appears. This ginger matures to about 2 feet and likes filtered sun.