Zingiber zerumbet, commonly known as the Shampoo Ginger Lily, has been gaining popularity since a video about them went viral last fall. These beautiful, cone-shaped plants produce a ginger-scented sap used for skin, hair, or medicinally. 

The perennial gets its name because the liquid it holds within can be sudsed up and used as a shampoo. The sap smells fantastic and can nourish your scalp and help with dandruff or dryness. It’s also able to refill on its own, and you can store the liquid in the freezer to use at a later time. 

This article will cover the key information on Shampoo Ginger Lillies and answer some common questions about this amazing plant.

What Does a Shampoo Ginger Lily Look Like? 

When fully grown, the plant looks like a bright red pinecone set atop a long green stem. When mature, they can grow up to four feet tall, and the cones average between one and four inches long. 

It grows over ten months, with the cones starting yellowish-green and eventually gaining their bright red color. They also can have small white flowers protruding from the scales at times. 

Is Shampoo Ginger Lily Real? 

Video editing can make us believe all sorts of things these days. Many questioned its authenticity, as the plant became wildly popular due to a viral video. However, we can assure you the Shampoo Ginger Lily is a natural, very cool plant. 

What Does Shampoo Ginger Lily Smell Like? 

One of the reasons it makes such a good shampoo is the sweet ginger scent the Shampoo Ginger Lily gives off. It is an aromatic plant; you can even cook the leaves to flavor your favorite dishes. Large patches of they can often envelop the whole area with their sweet fragrance. 

Is Shampoo Ginger Lily Invasive? 

The plant can multiply quickly and needs lots of space. It is not a high-risk invasive plant, but a large patch may prevent the growth of other plants in the area if not appropriately tended. They are native to Asia, so planted elsewhere, they may be considered invasive. However, they are a clumping plant and can be trained with the proper pruning. 

What Is the Shampoo Ginger Lily Used For? 

There are many health benefits provided by this plant, both topically and medicinally. The juices are often used in shampoos, perfumes, soaps, and other body care items. They are not only fragrant but also are hydrating and good for the skin and hair. 

Consumption of the Shampoo Ginger Lily also comes with great health benefits. It is an appetite stimulant often used for patients with cancer and contains anti-inflammatory properties. It has treated worms, diarrhea, stomach problems, and fever. On top of all this, it’s very flavorful and tastes great. 

How Do You Plant a Shampoo Ginger Lily? 

This plant does not produce seeds but is propagated with rhizomes. It can be cut from the plant while dormant. The rhizomes should dry out for a few days before being placed in rich, moist soil and left in partial sun. With a bit of fertilizer, you should see new growth in no time. 

How Do You Take Care of a Shampoo Ginger Lily? 

Shampoo Ginger Lillies growing zone is USDA Zone 8. They do best in warm climates and should be brought inside for the winter months. The ideal temperature range is between 70° and 80°, though it is cool-weather hardy in the short term. It needs at least an inch of water each week, which should be well-drained. 

They are typically free from serious diseases or pests, but keep an eye out for mites on new plants. It can overrun other plants in gardens, so keeping them in a container may be preferred. 

Is Shampoo Ginger Lily Safe For Dogs and Cats? 

As we’ve seen in the many health benefits this plant holds, it is non-toxic. Although some plants can have different side effects for dogs than humans, the Shampoo Ginger Lily is not one of them. 

It is non-toxic to both cats and dogs. Additionally, the liquid is gentle enough to be used as a pet shampoo. Because it is all-natural, there are no harmful chemicals, parabens, or sulfates. 

Conclusion

In closing, this fascinating exotic plant is more than just a pretty face. There are countless uses for all parts of the plant, including the cone, the leaves, and the roots. It is a beautiful way to utilize what nature gave us in the way it was intended. 

Shampoo Ginger Lily’s benefits could lower blood pressure, ease headaches, help with asthma, make a great addition to your cuisine, or simply help you smell great. Plus, your garden will be popping with color! Give this plant a little loving care, and it will give back to you tenfold.