Kaempferia pulchra 'Marble Variegata' is a rare and exquisite cultivar of the Kaempferia genus, part of the Zingiberaceae (ginger) family, native to Southeast Asia. Known as a “jewel ginger,” it is prized for its compact size and spectacular variegated foliage rather than its flowers.

The ‘Marble Variegata’ form produces broad, rounded leaves with an extraordinary mosaic of colours. Each leaf is dark to emerald green, overlaid with striking marble-like streaks and patches of silver, cream, and soft pink. The undersides are typically flushed with rich purple, offering a dramatic contrast when viewed from different angles.

Though the leaves are the main attraction, Kaempferia pulchra also produces charming, orchid-like blooms in shades of lavender or pale violet close to the soil level during the growing season. Compact at only 10–20 cm tall, it is perfect for terrariums, windowsills, or as part of a tropical foliage collection.

Kaempferia pulchra 'Marble Variegata' – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light or dappled shade. Avoid harsh direct sun, which can scorch its delicate variegated leaves.

Watering

Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season, but never waterlogged. Reduce watering significantly when the plant enters dormancy in winter.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers 18–26°C. Avoid prolonged exposure below 15°C.

• Humidity: Requires high humidity (60–80%). Ideal for terrarium culture or greenhouse cabinets.

Soil and Potting

Use a rich, free-draining substrate – peat-free compost blended with perlite, fine orchid bark, and sphagnum moss works well. A shallow pot is ideal for its rhizomatous growth.

Feeding

Feed every 3–4 weeks during spring and summer with a diluted, balanced fertiliser. Stop feeding once the plant begins to enter dormancy.

Growth and Dormancy

• Growth: Produces compact clumps of marble-patterned foliage in spring and summer, with occasional flowers.

• Dormancy: Leaves die back in autumn, leaving underground rhizomes. Keep the pot barely moist until new growth resumes in spring.

Pruning and Maintenance

Remove faded leaves and flowers to maintain the plant’s appearance. Avoid disturbing the rhizomes during dormancy.

Common Issues

• Leaf crisping: Caused by low humidity.

• Yellowing foliage: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Weak colour: Insufficient light.

Background and Benefits

The Kaempferia genus is closely related to ornamental and culinary gingers, but is grown primarily for its jewel-like foliage. The ‘Marble Variegata’ cultivar is especially collectable due to its striking multicoloured leaves and compact, terrarium-friendly growth.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect or dappled shade

• Water: Keep evenly moist in growth; reduce in dormancy

• Temperature: 18–26°C; avoid below 15°C

• Humidity: High (60–80%)

• Soil: Rich, free-draining mix with moss/bark

• Feed: Monthly in spring/summer

• Growth: Compact, 10–20 cm; marbled green, silver, cream, and pink leaves with purple undersides