Water
Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season. Reduce watering significantly when the plant enters dormancy. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Also known as Java Ginger · Javanese Turmeric · Temmo Labâk
Temulawak (Curcuma zanthorrhiza) is a herbaceous perennial plant native to Indonesia, known for its medicinal properties and bright orange rhizomes.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
75% intensity
Enjoys bright, filtered sunlight. Direct afternoon sun can scorch its leaves.
Consistent Moisture, Reduced in Dormancy
75% intensity
Prefers moist soil but dislikes waterlogging. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Well-drained, loamy, rich soil
50% intensity
Warm Temperatures
75% intensity
Thrives in warm conditions, ideally between 20-26°C. Protect from frost and cold drafts.
Monthly During Growth
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during the active growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season. Reduce watering significantly when the plant enters dormancy. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Pruning is generally not required for Curcuma zanthorrhiza. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves as they appear to maintain plant health and appearance. The plant naturally dies back in its dormant period.
Propagation is typically done by dividing the rhizomes during repotting in spring. Ensure each division has at least one viable bud. Plant the rhizomes shallowly in well-draining soil.
Repot the rhizomes every 2-3 years in spring, or when they outgrow their container. Use a well-draining potting mix. This is also an opportunity to divide overgrown clumps.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Temulawak (Curcuma zanthorrhiza)
Where Temulawak (Curcuma zanthorrhiza) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Zingiberaceae |
| Genus | Curcuma |
| Species | Curcuma zanthorrhiza |
Similar in genus Curcuma
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data