Costus speciosus 'Variegatus' (Variegated spiral ginger, Crepe ginger, Ornamental ginger)

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Plant description

Costus speciosus 'Variegatus', or variegated spiral ginger, is a tropical herbaceous perennial plant, noted for the wonderful spiral shaped stems with sharply variegated leaves. It also has attractive flowers that start out as maroon cones, and blossom into large white crepe flowers. It is a vigorous plant in the right conditions, and can flower in a single season from planting. It likes part shade to a more sunny position. It is best in tropical to sub tropical climates, but can be grown in frost free temperate areas in a warm spot. It can be grown as a container plant, in a large container. It grows from rhizomes.

Costus like a well drained, rich organic soil. They like regular watering and fertilising. They are troubled by few pests and diseases.

Propagation is by division.

Costus speciosus has been mentioned in the Kama Sutra as an ingredient in an eyelash cosmetic.

Additional plant information

Flowers

Flower colour: pink and white
Flowering season: spring summer

Plant size

Maximum height: 2 metres
Minimum height: 1.5 metres

Maximum width: 2 metres
Minimum width: not specified

Sunlight, frost & salt tolerance

Will tolerate partial sunlight.
Light frost tolerance.
Plant is salt tolerant.

Fauna attracting?

Yes. Attracts: Bees, insects, birds.

Climate

This plant species will grow in the following climates: subtropical, tropical.

Soil types & conditions

Loam: moist, well-drained.

Clay: moist, well-drained.

Sand: moist.

Soil pH: 6.0-6.5

Pests

Red spider mite

Miscellaneous information

Planting season: Any.

Types of fertiliser: Good general purpose fertiliser.

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