Malay Ginger

Latin Name: Costus speciosus

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(151 Ratings)

Plant Type: Perennial
Description: Stem strongly spiraled reaching about eight (240cm) feet. Flowers open singly or in pairs from a rather dowdy cone, but are about three (7.5cm) inches in diameter and of a white or yellow creepy texture.
Origin: Costa Rica
Environment: Suitable for the home or a greenhouse
Foliage: No
Flowering: Yes
Season: GI
Fragrant: No
Growing Ease: Requires a little extra care
Temperature: 60-85°F, 16-29°C
Humidity: Medium humidity
Lighting Needs: Does best in bright indirect sunlight coming from the South/West
Soil Type: A GOOD general purpose potting soil (a soil that retains water yet drains well) will suffice. Check purchased soil to see that it is well aerated and add sand or perlite and peat moss if it seems to pack too tightly. Give the plants a chance to settle in before going back to whatever fertilization program has been successful for you. If you want to mix your own take: 1 part garden soil, 1 part coarse sand or perlite, 1 part moist peat or humus (leaf mold) and a light dusting of lime. Always use a pot with a hole.
Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist and if you use rainwater, be careful as it could be acidic. Use warm water.
Fertilizer: Feed once during spring and once during summer only.
Plant Pests: Prone to mites. Always inspect any new plant for pests before introducing it to your home or greenhouse.
Propagation: Division and stem cuttings in the spring through early summer. It is best to propagate any type of cuttings in a mixture of moist peat and perlite. Cover the pot and plant with a plastic bag secured by a rubber band to prevent the moisture from escaping. Place in indirect sunlight or under a fluorescent light. Repot in its regular mix after it has been growing for a while.
Gardening Tips & Care: Place pebbles or gravel in the drainage dish to hold water and increase the humidity, make sure the pot is sitting on the gravel and not in the water. Rest in the winter and avoid drafts.
Is Genus: No
Malay Ginger picture Malay Ginger, Costus speciosus

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