Ginger is a biennial or perennial reed-like herb
Ginger is a biennial or perennial reed-like herb, grown for the pungent, spicy underground stems or rhizomes. The stems reach a height of 3 feet, with lanceolate, smooth leaves up to 8 inches long. The plants are propagated by small divisions of the rhizomes. Ginger is a tropical plant adapted for cultivation even in regions of subtropical climate such as the high ranges. It prefers rich soil with high humus content. Being an exhausting crop, ginger is not cultivated continuously in the same field but shifting cultivation is practised. The crop cannot withstand waterlogging and hence soils with good drainage are preferred for its cultivation. It is shade tolerant/loving crop with shallow roots and therefore suitable for intercropping and as a component in the homesteads where low to medium shade is available.