Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season. Reduce watering slightly in cooler months, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Also known as Congo Cane · Indian Head Ginger · Spiral Head Ginger
Costus scaber, a striking tropical perennial, features bright red flower bracts and lance-shaped leaves. It thrives in warm, humid climates and adds vibrant color to gard
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers bright, filtered sunlight. Protect from harsh direct sun, which can scorch leaves. Can tolerate partial shade.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Maintain evenly moist soil, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid soggy conditions.
Well-drained, moist
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 18-25°C. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 13°C.
Regular Feeding During Growth
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season (spring/summer).
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season. Reduce watering slightly in cooler months, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune to maintain shape and size, or to remove any dead or damaged foliage. Cut stems back to the base of the plant.
Pruning can also encourage more compact growth and potentially more flowering if the plant is mature enough.
Propagate through division of rhizomes or stem cuttings. Rhizomes can be divided when repotting. Stem cuttings can be taken in spring or summer, rooted in water or a moist potting mix, and then planted once established.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one.
Use a well-draining potting mix, ideally one formulated for tropical plants or with added perlite.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Costus Scaber (Costus scaber)
Where Costus Scaber (Costus scaber) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Costaceae |
| Genus | Costus |
| Species | Costus scaber |
Similar in genus Costus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
