Chittaratha (Rasanathi) Alpinia calcarata

Alpinia calcarata, also known as spiked ginger lily or dwarf cardamom, is a plant species that belongs to the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in Thailand, India, and Indonesia. The plant is a perennial herb that grows up to 1.5 meters tall.

The leaves of Alpinia calcarata are long and narrow, and they grow in two rows along the stem. The leaves are dark green and have a pointed tip. The plant produces flowers that are white or pink in color and have a tubular shape. The flowers grow in clusters at the end of the stems and are surrounded by several bracts.

The rhizomes of Alpinia calcarata are the part of the plant that is most commonly used for culinary and medicinal purposes. The rhizomes are small and round, with a brownish-gray skin and a pale yellow or white flesh. They have a pungent, spicy flavor and are used as a condiment in various dishes, especially in Indian and Thai cuisine. The rhizomes are also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory infections, digestive disorders, and inflammatory conditions.

Alpinia calcarata is a relatively easy plant to grow, and it can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade, and it can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes. The plant is often grown as an ornamental plant because of its attractive leaves and flowers. It is also used in landscaping and as a ground cover.