Water
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
Also known as Indian-Head Ginger · Lipstick Plant · Red Cane
Costus woodsonii, commonly known as Red Button Ginger, is a tropical perennial prized for its vibrant red bracts and white flowers, thriving in warm climates.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers bright, indirect light.
100% intensity
Can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
100% intensity
Reduce watering slightly in cooler months.
Well-draining, fertile potting mix, rich in organic matter.
50% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures.
100% intensity
Protect from frost; ideal range is 18-27°C.
Outdoor, Greenhouse, Indoor
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
100% intensity
Apply every 4-6 weeks from spring to fall.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged foliage. Cut back stems at the base to encourage new growth and a bushier habit. Can be pruned hard if it becomes leggy.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings or by dividing rhizomes. Cuttings should be taken in spring or summer and rooted in moist soil or water.
Repot every 1-2 years in spring when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Red Button Ginger (Costus woodsonii)
Where Red Button Ginger (Costus woodsonii) 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 woodsonii |
Similar in genus Costus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
