Description
The spiral ginger (Costus arabicus) originally comes from the Amazon rainforest, where it often grows near streams and rivers. It has an underground rhizome from which new stems grow at short intervals. These are up to 3 metres high and twisted in on themselves. At their ends, they form beautiful and big white flowers.
Originally from South America, this ginger is very popular in Hawaii and Florida. The actual name is C. arabicus variegata and it is labeled Costus amazonicus variegata almost everywhere. Spiraling stems rise with a strong white variegation and topped with green and white cone like flowers. Prefers shade, moist soil and lots of water.
Each stem has a different pattern. Some of them grow leaves that are pure white, while others are predominantly green. In principle, however, any plant can produce any pattern.
The “ginger” in the name refers to the fact that this plant belongs to the Zingiberaceae, the ginger family, just like the edible ginger (Zingiber officinale). However, the rhizome of C. arabicus is not edible.
How to Care for Ginger Plants
The White Ginger prefers shade, moist soil and lots of water.
Light - This is one of the most forgiving plants. Keep it in any indoor spot or semi-shade spot
Water - 2-3 times a week
Feed - Any liquid feed including organic plant foods once a month will do.
Common Names
White Ginger, Variegated Ginger
Native Region
South America
Botanical Name
Costus arabicus variegata, Costus amazonica variegate
Family
Costaceae
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