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spiral ginger
Scientific Name: Costus pulverulentus
Family: Costaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Spiral Ginger: A Botanical Overview
Spiral gingers, belonging to the genus Costus, are captivating plants known for their spiraling foliage and vibrant flowers. While not true gingers, they are close relatives that bring a touch of the tropics to gardens and homes.
Considerations for Pets
- Some varieties have a velvety soft texture on the foliage, which might be attractive to pets.
Considerations for Children
- Some varieties have a velvety soft texture on the foliage, which might be attractive to children.
Scientific Name and Common Names
- Scientific Name: Several Costus species are mentioned, including Costus barbatus, Costus comosus, Costus pulverulentus, Costus malortieanus, Costus speciosus, Costus afer, Costus guanaiensis, Costus pictus, Costus productus, Costus spiralis, Costus scaber, Costus uniflorus, Cheilocostus speciosus and Monocostus uniflorus.
- Common Names: Spiral Ginger, Red Tower Ginger, Crepe Ginger, Spiral Flag, African snake ginger, Yellow Spiral Ginger, Painted Spiral Ginger.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Family: Costaceae (part of the order Zingiberales, which also contains true gingers).
- Cheilocostus speciosus is mentioned as a synonym for Costus speciosus.
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to Costa Rica (Costus barbatus).
- Native to Mexico (Costus pictus).
- Native to Malay Peninsula of Southeast Asia (Costus speciosus).
- Generally found in the tropics of the southern hemisphere.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Foliage spirals around bamboo-like stalks.
- Some species have velvety smooth undersides on their leaves (Costus barbatus).
- Leaves can have broad white margins and bluish-green hearts.
- Canes grow in a spiral fashion with lush green leaves.
- Some varieties have reddish spiral stems with sharp variegation (Costus speciosus 'Variegatus').
- Flowers attract hummingbirds.
- Costus speciosus is a large shrub that can grow to 5-10 feet tall.
Ecological Role
- Flowers attract hummingbirds.
Quirky Facts
- Spiral gingers are noted to have "bamboo-like" stems.
- Some people reportedly eat the flowers of Costus species.
Further Information
- Dave's Garden is mentioned as a resource for gardening tips and ideas.
- RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) provides information on Costus malortieanus.