Shell Ginger, an Alpinia species, is making a hit right now with its drooping clusters of shell like, fragrant flowers. Variegated leaves are quite common on this plants, but it can also be found in a non-variegated version. It likes partial sun to shady areas. This plant does well in zones 8-11, but it is prone to freezes in central and north Florida. If it freezes back, it is less likely to flower, so in our area, the flowers are a gift only after a warm winter. Shell ginger can grow 6-12 feet tall and get to be 3-5 feet wide. This of course, also depends on weather conditions in the winter. It prefers dry to partially moist soil, but doesn’t tolerate drought conditions well. It has a medium salt tolerance. It is a lovely non-native plant that is a great conversations piece in the garden.