The Costus plants are actually a
pretty plant that is related to ginger and they also produce a stunning flower
spike, one per plant. The Costus plants however require a warm climate and they
also enjoyed be grown in containers that can be easily brought indoors in the
winter in colder climates.
Costus Plant Info
The Costus plants are actually related to
ginger and at one time they were classified with them in the Zingiberaceae
family, but now the plant have their own family, Costaceae. The Costus plants are
subtropical to tropical and they develop from a rhizome that produces one
flower on a spike. The Costus plants are also great for height in the
landscape, as they can easily grow up to six to ten feet tall. The Costus
plants are hardy to zones seven through twelve.
Costus Varieties
There are several varieties of Costus
plants. The most common variety is Costus speciosus which also known as crepe
ginger. The name actually describes the crepe-like, pale pink flowers. The Crepe
ginger variety is one of the tallest varieties of Costus. Also the Costus
varzeareanum is an interesting addition to the garden. Its purple leaf
undersides provide color and interest even when the plant is not flowering.
Another variety of Costus is Costos productus, this variety grows lower than
other types of Costus. This particular variety also has edible, sweet-tasting
flowers. You might likely find other varieties of Costus when you are searching
for crepe ginger and its relatives. There are also multiple cultivars as well,
which include different colors of flowers, like yellow, red, chocolate brown,
pink, orange, and everything in between.
Growing Costus Plants
Actually growing Costus crepe ginger
and some other varieties of this subtropical to tropical plant is not too hard
if you have the right conditions and the Costus plant information. The Costus
plants need warmth and will not tolerate much frost. The Costus plants do need
to be kept drier in the winter. You need to fertilize and keep them moist in
the spring. All the varieties of Costus plants are well suited to partial shade
and morning light. With more sun the Costus plants need more water. Regardless
of their location, the plant should be well watered at all times. Also the soil
should be light and needs to drain well. Diseases and pests are not actually major
issues for Costus plants.
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