Water
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months, but never allow the plant to dry out completely.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Also known as Yellow Trumpet
Costus spectabilis is an evergreen perennial herb native to Australia, known for its attractive foliage and vibrant flowers, making it a striking ornamental plant.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Can tolerate some morning sun, but avoid intense afternoon sun which can scorch leaves.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, but avoid soggy conditions. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months, but never allow the plant to dry out completely.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune to remove dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves and spent flower stalks. Cut back any leggy growth to encourage a bushier habit. Pruning can be done anytime, but is best after flowering or in early spring.
Propagate from rhizome divisions. Carefully separate sections of the rhizome, ensuring each piece has at least one bud or growth point.
Plant these divisions in well-draining potting mix, keeping them lightly moist and warm.
Repot every 1-2 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. Repotting is best done in spring before new growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Costus Spectabilis (Costus spectabilis)
Where Costus Spectabilis (Costus spectabilis) 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 spectabilis |
Similar in genus Costus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
