Siam Tulip

The Curcuma Siam Splash bursts into view with tulip-shaped bracts in fuchsia and magenta, perched above lush green foliage. This exotic tropical gem infuses living rooms and conservatories with an energizing, sun-kissed vibe, turning any corner into a vibrant, island-inspired retreat.

The Siam Tulip features broad lance-shaped leaves in deep green, out of which emerge upright flower spikes crowned by overlapping, cup-like bracts in shades of bright pink with purple-tipped accents. In modern interiors, display it in a sleek ceramic pot on a sideboard or coffee table. In sunrooms or covered patios, group it with ferns and palms to evoke a rainforest tableau. As a standout centerpiece, set it on a plant stand to elevate blooms to eye level, where their sculptural form and vivid hue command admiration.

The Siam Tulip is a perennial ginger that grows up to a meter tall and 0.1 to 0.5m wide over 2 to 5 years, forming a columnar clump of foliage from fleshy rhizomes. Blooms appear in summer, lasting several weeks before leaves yellow for dormancy. It shows moderate growth, sending up new shoots each season. Starter homes could be 15 to 20cm but, of course, bigger ones are needed to fit growing plants.

Curcuma ‘Siam Splash’ flourishes in bright, indirect light (ideally near an east-facing window) or in partial shade outdoors, replicating its native filtered canopy. It tolerates some morning sun, but direct afternoon rays can scorch bracts and foliage. In lower-light spots, bloom production may be sparse. Compact enough for indoor pots yet hardy enough for warm, sheltered patios, it adapts to both environments as long as temperatures stay above 18°C and moisture is consistent.

Caring for the Siam Tulip is a step up from the usual. Keep soil evenly moist during the active growing season by allowing the top to dry slightly before feeding. A sandy-loamy, slightly acidic mix rich in organic matter is good for healthy rhizome development. Fertilize monthly or every 4 to 6 weeks with a balanced or potassium-rich liquid feed to promote vibrant blooms (but not during dormancy). Provide humidity of 60 to 75% via pebble trays or humidifiers and avoid constant leaf misting to reduce fungal risk.

Beyond its show-stopping flowers, the Curcuma Siam Splash uplifts mood and connectivity to nature. The rhythmic emergence of colorful bracts offers a seasonal highlight that renews anticipation and joy each summer. Caring for its rhizomes, like dividing and repotting, becomes a grounding ritual, reconnecting you to plant life cycles. While not a primary air purifier, its broad leaves help moderate humidity and soften ambient air. Place it in living rooms, guest rooms, or sun-filled reading nooks to spark conversations, spark creativity and evoke a mini-vacation vibe year after year.

• That Color: Striking pink and purple
• That Rarity: A must for collectors
• That Look: Compact size fits most areas
• That Air: Encourages humidity balance
• That Spread: Easily propagated by dividing rhizomes

Invite the spirit of a Southeast Asian garden into your home with Curcuma Siam Splash. The crème de la crème of the plant world is waiting for you - get yours today!

• Size at dispatch: 30 cm in height, and comes in a 15 cm pot
• Care level: Medium
• Pet safety: Toxic