Kaempferia aurantiflora ‘Jungle Silver’ is a rare and exotic species from the Zingiberaceae family (the ginger family), native to Southeast Asia. This compact ground-dwelling plant is highly prized among collectors of unusual foliage species for its stunning silver-patterned leaves and seasonal tropical flowers.

The leaves are broad, oval, and lie close to the ground in a rosette-like formation. In the ‘Jungle Silver’ form, each leaf is a soft, velvety green overlaid with striking silvery-white mottling and marbling, giving it a shimmering, metallic quality. The undersides of the leaves are often flushed with purple, adding further depth and contrast.

During the growing season, Kaempferia aurantiflora ‘Jungle Silver’ produces delicate, orchid-like blooms in shades of lilac, violet, or pale purple. These short-lived flowers rise slightly above the foliage and provide an unexpected burst of colour. Compact in size (usually 15–25 cm tall), this plant is ideally suited to terrariums, shaded houseplant collections, or tropical understory plantings.

Kaempferia aurantiflora ‘Jungle Silver’ – Care Guide

Light

Prefers bright, indirect light or dappled shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the delicate leaves, while too little light may reduce silver variegation.

Watering

Keep the soil evenly moist during the active growing season (spring to late summer). Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels slightly dry. Reduce watering in autumn as the plant enters dormancy.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Thrives in 18–28°C. Avoid exposure below 12–15°C.

• Humidity: Requires high humidity (60–80%). Best grown in terrariums, greenhouses, or with a humidifier indoors.

Soil and Potting

Plant in a rich, moisture-retentive but free-draining substrate. A mix of peat-free compost, perlite, and fine orchid bark works well. Wide, shallow pots are ideal for accommodating its spreading rhizomes.

Feeding

Feed every 3–4 weeks during the growing season with a diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser. Stop feeding when the plant begins to enter dormancy.

Growth and Dormancy

• Growth: Produces flat rosettes of silver-patterned leaves and small violet flowers in the warmer months.

• Dormancy: Naturally goes dormant in winter. Leaves will die back completely, and the rhizomes should be kept just barely moist until spring.

Pruning and Maintenance

Remove fading leaves and flowers at the base to keep the plant tidy. Avoid disturbing the rhizomes during dormancy.

Common Issues

• Leaf yellowing: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Crisping edges: Caused by low humidity.

• Weak growth: Insufficient light or nutrients.

Background and Benefits

The Kaempferia genus is closely related to culinary gingers and ornamental curcumas, but it is much smaller and grown chiefly for its foliage. The ‘Jungle Silver’ form of Kaempferia aurantiflora is especially valued for its metallic silver leaves, which look almost painted. Its compact size and seasonal rhythm make it a fascinating addition to rare plant collections and terrarium plantings.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect or dappled shade

• Water: Keep moist in growth; reduce in dormancy

• Temperature: 18–28°C; avoid below 12°C

• Humidity: High (60–80%)

• Soil: Rich, free-draining, moisture-retentive mix

• Feed: Monthly in growing season

• Growth: Compact rosette, 15–25 cm; silver-patterned leaves, purple undersides, and violet flowers