Kahili ginger (wild ginger)

This task is about how features help a plant survive and why it is a pest plant.

Wild ginger is a plant that is threatening our native bush. It is an introduced plant that is grown in some home gardens. It has colourful strongly perfumed flowers that produce up to 100 seeds per flower head. The seeds are dispersed by birds. Wild ginger grows in the shade or sun and spreads very quickly creating a dense mat of plants. It has long horizontal underground stems, called rhizomes, which can produce new plants.  

Question 2Change answer

a)  Fill in the chart below to explain how each special feature helps the wild ginger survive.
Special feature How the feature helps the wild ginger survive
Lots of seeds
Rhizomes that can form new plants
Grows quickly
Grows in sun or shade

Question 2Change answer

b)  Plants can be dug out but the total root system must be removed. Even small bits of root left in the soil will re-grow.
 
     i)  The Department of Conservation says that stalks and roots are hard to burn and should not be composted.
          They suggest they should be taken to the Council tip or put out with household rubbish for collection.
          Explain why this is important.

Question 2Change answer

     ii) If you see wild ginger on empty land or in a bush reserve you should remove and destroy the flowers and young plants.
         You should also tell the Council where the plants were found.
         Explain why the council wants you to destroy the flowers.