There are about 40 genera in this family; several species of these genera are grown for their ornamental flowers and foliage, while others furnish dyes, spice and perfume.

This monocotyledonous, rhizomatous, tender perennial plant is native to tropical, southeastern Asia. The thick, fleshy rhizome of this species is edible, aromatic and the source of commercial ginger. Candied ginger is made from young rhizomes, which are cleaned and peeled and then preserved in syrup. Condimental ginger is prepared from fresh and medicinal ginger from the dried rhizome.