New hybrids of torch ginger as a cut flower in Thailand

Five torch ginger hybrids (Etlingera elatior × Etlingera fulgens) were planted at three locations (the Chiang Rai, Loei and Chanthaburi Horticultural Research Centers) during 2016-2019 to evaluate yield and flower quality in comparison with a commercial cultivar 'Dang Dok'. The four hybrids had export-suitable cup-shaped flowers, with dark red, red or red-pink bracts. The flowers were approximately half the size of 'Dang Dok', but with comparable peduncle length. Yields of these hybrid clones ranged from 129 to 404 flowers clump^‑1 year^‑1, but varied by location depending on soil pH and the amount of exchangeable potassium. Clone #8 performed very well in all testing locations, yielding 244-361 flowers clump^‑1 year^‑1, and was named 'Yala 1'. Vase life of the four hybrids, harvested at 50% flower opening stage, were 8.0-9.9 days at ambient conditions, similar to that of 'Dang Dok'.