Water
Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season, but avoid waterlogging. Reduce watering in winter, allowing the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Also known as Spiral Flag · Spiral Ginger
Costus pictus, a vibrant evergreen perennial, features striking red and green foliage and delicate white flowers, thriving in warm, humid environments.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers bright, filtered light; avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged; reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 18-24°C; avoid drafts and sudden temperature drops.
Moderate Feeding
50% intensity
Feed monthly during growing season with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer.
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
Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season, but avoid waterlogging. Reduce watering in winter, allowing the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any spent flower stalks and yellowing or dead leaves at their base. You can cut back significantly in late winter or early spring to stimulate new shoots.
Propagate by dividing rhizomes in spring. Carefully separate sections of the rhizome, ensuring each piece has at least one growth bud. Plant these divisions in well-draining potting mix, keeping them lightly moist.
Repot every 1-2 years in spring, 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, such as a peat-based mix 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 Pictus (Costus pictus)
Where Costus Pictus (Costus pictus) 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 pictus |
Similar in genus Costus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
