Description
Hedychium coccineum (syn. H. aurantiacum) is a robust, perennial plant up to 4-6 feet high with stiff leaves, smooth green above and bluish beneath. The deep orange flowers with pink filaments are borne on dense stout spikes. Tropical-looking foliage provides interest all season long. Hedychium are related to the culinary ginger Zingiber officinale. Where hardy, they add subtropical foliage and exotic late summer and fall flowers to the garden. Grow in warm spots in full to part sun with rich soil and abundant moisture. Mulch with fallen leaves in winter. They are also easy to grow in pots and can be protected in a frost free area for winter or grown as a houseplant.
