Dwarf Cardamom

This plant is Alpinia nutans or 'Dwarf Cardamom' and sometimes 'False Cardamom' - so it is an ornamental for the garden - not 'True Cardamom' (Elletaria cardamomum) of aromatic Indian spice fame. 

That being said, it is a fabulous addition to the subtropical garden for its lush foliage and beautiful creamy shell-like flowers. The foliage gives off a wonderful Cardamom-like scent when you rub or crush the leaves, hence the name Dwarf/False Cardamom. 

Grows well in NZ with a relatively more compact habit than some Gingers. Likes part-shade and plenty of water like most Gingers.