Marketplace Genus

Costus

Costus

1 cultivar

Costus, commonly known as spiral ginger, is a striking genus of tropical perennials renowned for its uniquely twisting, architectural stems and lush foliage. These bold plants form upright clumps that bring an immediate jungle-like feel to shaded gardens, patios, and sunrooms. When in bloom, many Costus varieties produce distinctive, waxy, cone-shaped bracts from which vibrant, tubular flowers emerge, often in brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Thriving in warm, humid environments, Costus prefers consistently moist, well-draining soil and bright, indirect light or partial shade. While they are stunning landscape plants in frost-free zones (typically USDA Zones 10-12), they also make excellent container specimens that can be easily managed on patios and overwintered indoors in cooler climates. Their captivating growth habit and exotic flowers make them a versatile and highly rewarding addition for tropical plant enthusiasts.