Description
Cheilocostus speciosus has true stems which spiral like a corkscrew.
It has the only one row of spirally arranged leaves. It is a tall and dramatic landscape plant with large dark green leaves. The plant reproduces vegetatively by rhizome, and birds disperse the seeds when they feed on the fruits.
The a large crepy object is not the petal, but the stamen - the three true petals of each flower are difficult to identify.| Common Name | Crepe Ginger, cane-reed, Malay ginger, spiral flag, spiral ginger, wild ginger |
| Height | Up to 10 feet tall in frost-free areas, but is typically small as a potted plant. |
| Flower Colour | Red bracts with white flower |
| Bloom Time | October to December or late summer or early fall |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to grow |
Planting and care
- Water a plant when the soil feels dry to touch
- Apply mulch for the spring season
- Remove dead and damaged plant parts
Cheilocostus speciosus care
- It is naturally found at roadside ditches and low lying areas in the forest
| Sunlight | Full Sun, Semi-Shade |
| Watering | Moderate Water, Occasional Misting |
| Soil | Well-drained soil |
| Temperature | 14 to 22 degrees C |
| Fertilizer | Prefer an organic fertilizer. |
| Harvest Season | Not defined |
Cheilocostus speciosus special feature
The plant has many historical uses in Ayurveda.
Cheilocostus speciosus uses
Ornamental Use:
- It can be planted as a roadside tree, in the parks & gardens, as hedge or screening etc
Medicinal Use:
- This plant is cultivated in India for its medicinal uses
Culinary Use:
- The leaves may be used in few dishes