Curcuma: The Exotic Beauty with Healing Roots

Q: Is the curcuma flower you buy in the florist shop the same as the spice?

Both belong to the same genus Curcuma , but they are different species with completely different purposes. The kitchen spice comes from Curcuma longa — it is the dried, ground rhizome of this plant that gives curry its characteristic yellow colour. Its flowers are small, white or pale pink, and entirely unremarkable. The florist curcuma is most commonly Curcuma alismatifolia — the Siam Tulip — a tropical plant from Thailand and Laos with spectacular pink, red, or white bracts that resemble tulips. Its rhizome has no culinary value whatsoever. The Curcuma genus includes both the edible spice Curcuma longa and these lovely tropical ornamental plants — all part of the ginger family, originally from Asia. So think of them as cousins, not twins. You cannot grind the florist curcuma into your curry — and the kitchen spice would look decidedly unimpressive in a bouquet.

Q: What does a curcuma plant look like?

The curcuma plant has large, lance-shaped green leaves and produces elegant cone-shaped flowers , often pink, purple, or white , depending on the variety. Underground, it grows orange-yellow rhizomes , similar to ginger.

Q: How to care for a curcuma plant?

Curcuma loves warmth, humidity, and bright indirect light . Keep the soil evenly moist , but avoid waterlogging. During the growing season (spring to late summer), feed every 2–3 weeks with a balanced fertiliser. In autumn, the plant goes dormant – reduce watering and let the leaves die back naturally.

Q: What kind of plant is curcuma?

Curcuma is a rhizome-forming perennial herb from the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) . It’s native to South and Southeast Asia and is grown for its medicinal root, ornamental foliage , and beautiful flowers .

Q: When does the curcuma plant bloom?

The curcuma plant usually blooms in summer, from June to August. Its beautiful, exotic-looking flower can last several weeks and is a real eye-catcher indoors or in the garden. The flowering period may vary slightly depending on the climate and care.

Curcuma, often called Siam Tulip, is a tropical plant admired for its upright, tulip-like bracts in vibrant shades of pink, purple, or white. Although not related to true tulips, curcuma stands out with its dramatic shape and ornamental elegance. Native to Southeast Asia, it belongs to the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) and is closely related to the turmeric root. In floral symbolism, Curcuma represents purity, healing, spiritual protection, and feminine strength.

pink curcuma flower on a grey background

COMMON NAME

Curcuma, Siam Tulip

BOTANICAL NAME

Curcuma alismatifolia

ORIGIN

Southeast Asia (Thailand, Cambodia)

PEOPLE ALSO CALL IT

Hidden Lily, Summer Tulip, Thai Tulip

FLOWERING TIME

Summer (June to September)

ASPECT

Bright, indirect light; warm, humid climate

SYMBOLISM

Health, renewal, prosperity, healing, inner strength

Care Tips for Curcuma in the Garden or Pot

Light: Loves bright, indirect sunlight—direct sun may scorch the leaves.

Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging.

Humidity: Prefers high humidity—ideal for warm bathrooms or with a humidity tray.

Soil: Rich, well-draining potting mix (add perlite or orchid bark).

Fertilisation: Feed every 2–3 weeks during growth with a balanced houseplant fertiliser.

Dormancy: After flowering, the plant goes dormant. Reduce watering and let foliage die back naturally. Store rhizomes cool and dry.

Repotting: Replant rhizomes in spring when growth resumes.

Symbolism & Meaning

Curcuma represents healing energy, calm strength, and inner beauty. Because of its connection to turmeric, a powerful healing spice, it also symbolises restoration and wellness. In many cultures, it's used as a spiritual protection flower, especially in rituals focused on balance, purity, and grounding energy. Its feminine elegance and sturdy posture make it a meaningful gift for those recovering, transforming, or growing.

Types of Curcuma Plants

Curcuma alismatifolia ‘Siam Scarlet’ – Bold pink bracts with vivid green leaves.

‘Chiang Mai Pink’ – Light pink flowers, very popular as a potted plant.

‘Snow White’ – Pure white bracts, elegant and rare.

Curcuma longa – The culinary turmeric variety, more leafy with underground golden rhizomes.

Miniature hybrids – Compact cultivars ideal for tabletops or small pots.

Frequently Asked Questions About Curcuma Plant

Is the curcuma flower you buy in the florist shop the same as the spice?

What does a curcuma plant look like?

How to care for a curcuma plant?

What kind of plant is curcuma?

When does the curcuma plant bloom?

With over 35 years of floristry experience, David Denyer is a renowned master in his field. His talent and artistic vision have earned him numerous accolades and awards, establishing him as one of the industry's leading figures. David has captivated audiences worldwide, showcasing his passion for floristry in Europe, China, Australia, and America. His captivating demonstrations have left a lasting impression on floral enthusiasts globally. In 2023, David made a memorable appearance on the prestigious television show, Gardeners World, further solidifying his reputation as an exceptional florist. David's journey to success began in 1996 when he was named Interflora "Florist of the Year." Since then, he has represented the United Kingdom in the "Europa Cup" and achieved consecutive Chelsea Gold Medals and Best in Show titles at the renowned Chelsea Flower Show from 2000 to 2003. In July 2004, David was once again named Interflora "Florist of the Year" and led his team to victory at the Interflora World Cup in Melbourne, Australia. He continued to impress with another Chelsea Gold Medal in 2005 and received a Gold Medal in 2011 for his floral installation titled "A Sense of Perspective." David's Accolades: July 1996: Interflora "Florist of the Year"; September 1999: Represented the UK in the "Europa Cup" in Austria; May 2000-2005: 6x Consecutive Chelsea Gold Medal and Best in Show - Professional Floristry; July 2004: Interflora "Florist of the Year"; September 2004: Interflora World Cup Winners in Melbourne, Australia; 2011: Chelsea Gold Medal for "A Sense of Perspective" floral installation; 2023: Appeared on Gardeners World in 2023; David's vast experience and expertise now benefits Eflorist customers. Understanding the emotional power of flowers, he ensures that every customer receives the utmost delight when enjoying their thoughtfully sent bouquet.

Curcuma: The Exotic Beauty with Healing Roots

Care Tips for Curcuma in the Garden or Pot

Symbolism & Meaning

Types of Curcuma Plants

Frequently Asked Questions About Curcuma Plant

See also

David Denyer

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