Spiral Ginger
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(Costus spiralis)
Spiral Ginger (Costus spiralis)
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© Anthony Batista
CC BY 4.0
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© Anthony Batista
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CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: © Anthony Batista | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Uploader: antbatista | Publisher: iNaturalist |
Summary
Costus spiralis, commonly known as Spiral Ginger, is a perennial herb native to the understory of tropical rainforests in South America. It typically grows to a height of 2-6 feet (0.6-1.8 meters) with a similar spread. The plant is characterized by its spirally arranged, lush green leaves that can add a tropical flair to any setting. The inflorescences are cone-like structures from which striking red or yellow flowers emerge, usually during the warmer months. These flowers are particularly showy and can add a vibrant touch to the garden.
Spiral Ginger is valued for its ornamental foliage and unique floral display, making it a popular choice for tropical and subtropical gardens. It is often used as an accent plant or in mass plantings for a bold effect. In cultivation, it requires consistently moist, well-drained soils and thrives in partial shade, although it can tolerate some sun in cooler climates. It is relatively low-maintenance but may require regular watering during dry periods. While generally pest-free, it can occasionally suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0
Spiral Ginger is valued for its ornamental foliage and unique floral display, making it a popular choice for tropical and subtropical gardens. It is often used as an accent plant or in mass plantings for a bold effect. In cultivation, it requires consistently moist, well-drained soils and thrives in partial shade, although it can tolerate some sun in cooler climates. It is relatively low-maintenance but may require regular watering during dry periods. While generally pest-free, it can occasionally suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 3.25-11 feet
- Width: 1.75-3.25 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Red, Yellow
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Border Plant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant
Natural Habitat
native to the understory of tropical rainforests in South America
Other Names
Common Names: Spiral Ginger, Spiral Flag, Caña De Mico, Corkscrew Ginger
Scientific Names: Costus spiralis, Alpinia spiralis, Amomum spirale, Gissanthe spiralis
GBIF Accepted Name: Costus spiralis