Ginger is a 2-4 feet tall slender perennial with grass-like leaves and greenish-yellow flowers. Once the leaves of the plant die, the thick rhizomes, about 6 inches long, are dug up. Ginger is often referred to as a root but this is technically incorrect.The flavor of fresh ginger is slightly peppery and sweet, with a pungent and spicy aroma. Much like garlic, fresh ginger mellows with cooking and turns bitter if burned. The ground form is not as strongly flavored but has a warm bite and a little sweetness.