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Description
Costus Woodsonii, also known as Scarlet Spiral Flag or Red Tower Ginger, is a tropical plant that belongs to the family Costaceae. Native to South America, this perennial herbaceous plant is widely cultivated for its attractive foliage and stunning flowers. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide, making it a great addition to any garden or indoor space.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Costaceae |
| Genus | Costus |
Appearance
Costus Woodsonii has large, glossy, lance-shaped leaves that are arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem. The leaves can grow up to 12 inches long and 3 inches wide, and they are dark green in color. The plant produces striking flowers that are bright red, tubular-shaped, and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The flowers can grow up to 2 inches long and are a favorite of hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Water
Costus Woodsonii likes to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week and ensure that the soil is well-draining. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize Costus Woodsonii once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Stop fertilizing in the fall and winter, as the plant enters a dormant phase.
Soil
Costus Woodsonii prefers well-draining, rich soil that is slightly acidic. Add compost or organic matter to the soil to improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight
Costus Woodsonii likes bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones
Costus Woodsonii is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It can be grown as a houseplant in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Costus Woodsonii is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can also be a problem if the plant is overwatered or the soil is poorly-draining.
Habitat
Costus Woodsonii is native to the tropical regions of South America, including Brazil, Ecuador, and Peru. It grows in moist, shaded areas such as rainforests, riverbanks, and swamps.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Costus Woodsonii be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Costus Woodsonii can be grown as a houseplant in bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Costus Woodsonii?
A: Water Costus Woodsonii deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is well-draining.
Q: What kind of soil does Costus Woodsonii prefer?
A: Costus Woodsonii prefers well-draining, rich soil that is slightly acidic. Add compost or organic matter to the soil to improve drainage and fertility.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Costus Woodsonii?
A: Costus Woodsonii is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Costus barbatus
- Costus comosus
- Costus erythrophyllus
- Costus pulverulentus
References
- “Costus Woodsonii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c620.
- “Scarlet Spiral Flag.” Costa Farms, www.costafarms.com/plants/scarlet-spiral-flag.
- “Costus Woodsonii – Red Tower Ginger.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/costus-woodsonii/costus-woodsonii-information.htm.
