Photo Courtesy: Marty Strenges

Spiral-Ginger

Costus barbatus Suess.

COST-us bar-BAY-tus

Costaceae

Explanation of name: For generic name see C. woodsonii. Barbatus means bearded, possibly because the leaves are pubescent.

Natural range: Costa Rica (see below)

Recognition: Spiral-ginger with tall (7”-3”) cone-like inflorescence having spreading red bracts and yellow flowers (see below for data source). Leaves velvety beneath.

Landscape uses: This showy species has become perhaps the most cultivated Costus in South Florida. Valued as a long-lasting cut flower.

Internet sources:  http://florawww.eeb.uconn.edu/acc_num/200000064.html and from http://www.montosogardens.com/costus_barbatus.htm and from http://heliconiaparadise.com/Costus_barbatus.htm)