Costus Red

Plant Details

• Botanical Name: Costus woodsonii 

• Common Names: Red Button Ginger, Scarlet Spiral Flag, Costus Red, Spiral Ginger

• Family: Costaceae

• Type: Perennial tropical plant

Appearance

• Height: 2–4 feet (60–120 cm)

• Stem/Leaves: Upright cane-like stems with lush, spirally arranged green leaves.

• Flowers: Bright red cone-like bracts, from which small yellow/orange flowers emerge. Flowers appear for long periods in warm climates.

 Care Guide

• Sun Light: Prefers bright indirect light to partial shade. Direct hot sun may scorch leaves, but too much shade reduces flowering.

• Soil: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal.

• Watering: Needs regular moisture; soil should stay evenly moist but not soggy. Mulching helps retain soil moisture.

• Fertilizer: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during active growth (spring–summer).

•  Uses & Benefits

1. Ornamental Value:

   • Grown for its striking red cone-shaped bracts and tropical appearance.

   • Excellent for tropical gardens, borders, and containers.

2. Medicinal/Folk Uses:

   • In some traditional practices, Costus species are used for treating inflammation, digestive issues, and skin problems, though C. woodsonii is mainly ornamental (medicinal use is more common with Costus speciosus).

3. Environmental Uses:

   • Acts as a pollinator-friendly plant, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

4. Landscaping:

   • Used in tropical landscaping for color and structure.

   • Works well as an understory plant with palms or larger trees.