Cheilocostus speciosus (Crepe Ginger, Setawar Tawar, Spiral Flag, Cane Reed, Malay Ginger, Wild Ginger, Spiral Ginger, White Costus.)
Botanical Information
| Family | Costaceae |
| Genus | Cheilocostus |
| Species | speciosus |
| Synonyms | Costus speciosus |
| Category | Perennials, Tropicals |
| Origin | Southeast Asia. |
| Ethnobotanical Uses Disclaimer | The rhizome has been used to treat fever, rash, asthma, bronchitis, and intestinal worms. |
Details
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 8 - 11 |
| USDA Hardiness Ref. | |
| Canadian Hardiness Zone | Requires cold season protection under glass. |
| Canada Hardiness Ref. | |
| RHS Hardiness Zone | H1c - H5 |
| RHS Hardiness Ref. | |
| Height | 4 m |
| Growth | Medium |
| Flowering Period | March, April, May |
Description and Growing Information
| Landscape | An ornamental plant for borders, or as a low screen. |
| Propagation | Propagated by seed or division of clumps. |
| Notable Specimens | Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. |
| Habitat | It grows in damp open places, and is commonly found in lowland forest margins. |
| Leaf Description | Large, dark green leaves. |
| Flower Description | White flowers that are 6 – 8 cm long. |
| Fruit Description | Flattened berries that are drupe-shaped, containing numerous black seeds. |
Photographs
Cheliocostus seciosus, form. Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.
Cheliocostus seciosus, fruit. Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.