Cheilocostus speciosus is a large, fast-growing ginger native to tropical Asia. A few years ago the Costus genus was split into several genera, separating the African species from the Asian species, and this plant is now correctly known as Cheilocostus speciosus but most nurseries still list it under the Costus genus. It is one of the spiral gingers and this species grows some of the best spirals in the group.
The plant can grow 8-10 foot tall and wide in a single season and flowers start forming on the tips of the canes by early summer. Even after a hard freeze, new growth quickly comes into bloom. As the canes reach their mature height, a reddish cluster of bracts forms on the tip. Pink flower buds quickly develop and the bracts secrete a sugary substance that is well-liked by ants.
The buds open into a large, white, tissue-paper-like flower over 3 inches in diameter. Flowers open singly or a few at a time through the summer. The flower is the reason this is sometimes called the Crepe Ginger.
Even after the flowers have finished, the remaining red bracts provide long-lasting color into the fall.
The plant grows best with at least half a day of full sun. This is supposed to be the most cold-hardy among the spiral gingers and is recommended for USDA Zones 7-12.
There are various select varieties in cultivation which vary in growing height or leaf variegation. The rhizomes of Cheilocostus speciosus are generally considered not edible, but various cultures do attribute medicinal qualities to them.
5 comments:
So this is a ginger! I've seen them before here but never knew they were gingers. So beautiful.
That is quite a spectacular flower and the plant is quite nice, too. I've seen the plant before, but never the flower.
Hello Grower Jim
I love the images that go with the ginger
I like beauty with an unusual twist. Wink, wink!
This costus flower is delicate and sweet. Your pictures clearly shows the 'spiral' effect.
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