Genetic resources of sand ginger (Kaempferia galanga L.) in Kon Ka Kinh National Park, Gia Lai province, Vietnam

Abstract

Sand ginger is used as a spice and traditional medicine and grows naturally in mountainous areas or planted in Vietnam and tropical Asian countries. The study was conducted in 2022 to investigate, evaluate and describe the plant characteristics, distribution, ecological conditions, and the possibility of replicating the production of sand ginger in Kon Ka Kinh National Park, Gia Lai province, Vietnam. The results show uneven distribution with a small number of encountered individuals. We described and evaluated sixteen indicators regarding leaves and rhizome morphology and anatomical characteristics of rhizomes of the plant. All collected samples were identified with the scientific name of Kaempferia galanga L., belonging to the Zingiberaceae family. The plants mainly grow close to the soil surface with rich humus, high humidity, sufficient light and good drainage. Sand gingers are mainly exploited wild. The results are essential information for the conservation and cultivation of sand ginger in the region.