Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months, but never allow the soil to dry out completely.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Also known as Indian Head Ginger · Spiked Spiral-Flag · Spiked Spiralflag Ginger
Spiked Spiralflag (Costus spicatus) is a striking tropical plant known for its vibrant red flower spikes and architectural, upright growth habit, adding bold color to gar
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers bright, filtered sunlight. Avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil moist, water when top layer is dry, ensure drainage.
Well-draining, rich, moist soil
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-25°C. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 13°C.
Moderate Feeding
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted.
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. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months, but never allow the soil to dry out completely.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune to remove dead or damaged foliage and spent flower stalks. Cut stems back to the base to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance.
Pruning can also be done to control size and shape, or to propagate new plants.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings or by dividing rhizomes. Take 4-6 inch cuttings in spring or summer, dip in rooting hormone, and plant in moist potting mix.
Rhizome division involves separating the underground stems with at least one bud.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and compost.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Spiked Spiralflag (Costus spicatus)
Where Spiked Spiralflag (Costus spicatus) 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 spicatus |
Similar in genus Costus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
