About Parakaempferia alba:
- It is a new species of Zingiberaceae (ginger family).
- It was discovered in the Siang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh.
Key Facts about Zingiberaceae:
- Zingiberaceae, the ginger family of flowering plants, is the largest family of the order Zingiberales.
- These aromatic herbs grow in moist areas of the tropics and subtropics, including some regions that are seasonably dry.
- Members of the family are perennials that frequently have sympodial (forked) fleshy rhizomes (underground stems).
- A few species are epiphytic—i.e., supported by other plants and having aerial roots exposed to the humid atmosphere.
- Many species are economically valuable for their spices and perfume.
- The dried thick rhizome of turmeric (Curcuma longa) is commonly ground for culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic uses.
- The seeds of Elettaria cardamomum are the source of cardamom.
- Ginger is obtained from the fresh or dried rhizomes of Zingiber officinale, and a number of ornamental gingers are grown for their attractive flowers and foliage.
- Several species of shellflower (Alpinia) are cultivated as ornamentals.
