Contents
Description
Etlingera Coccinea, also known as the Red Torch Ginger, is a tropical perennial plant that is native to Southeast Asia. The plant produces large, showy flowers that are bright red in color and shaped like torches, hence the name. The flowers are held on long stems that can reach up to 6 feet in height, and they are surrounded by vibrant green foliage that can grow up to 10 feet tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Zingiberaceae |
| Genus | Etlingera |
Appearance
Etlingera Coccinea is a large, impressive plant that can add a tropical feel to any garden. The leaves are long and lance-shaped, and they can grow up to 3 feet long and 6 inches wide. The flowers are the real show-stoppers, however. They are large and bright red, with long stamens that protrude from the center of the flower. The flowers can grow up to 12 inches long and 6 inches wide, and they are held on long stems that can reach up to 6 feet in height.
Care Guide
Etlingera Coccinea is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some specific conditions in order to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your Red Torch Ginger:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry.
- Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every two months during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Etlingera Coccinea prefers partial shade, but can tolerate full sun if the soil is kept consistently moist.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is only hardy in USDA zones 10-12. In colder zones, it can be grown as a container plant and brought indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Etlingera Coccinea is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to a few common diseases:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove affected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Make sure the soil is well-draining and do not water too frequently.
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the leaves and flowers. Treat with an insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Etlingera Coccinea is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows in tropical rainforests. It prefers warm, humid conditions and well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant is commonly used in landscaping and as a cut flower in tropical regions around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Etlingera Coccinea be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Etlingera Coccinea can be grown indoors as a container plant. It will need bright, indirect light and regular watering.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Red Torch Ginger?
A: Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every two months during the growing season.
Q: Can Etlingera Coccinea be grown in a colder climate?
A: Etlingera Coccinea is only hardy in USDA zones 10-12. In colder zones, it can be grown as a container plant and brought indoors during the winter.
Q: How often should I water my Red Torch Ginger?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry.
Related Plants
- Etlingera Elatior (Torch Ginger)
- Etlingera Venusta (Pink Torch Ginger)
- Etlingera Fulgens (Queen Lily)
References
- “Etlingera Coccinea.” Floridata. Accessed June 4, 2021. https://floridata.com/plant/113.
- “Etlingera Coccinea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 4, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276744&isprofile=0&basic=etlingera%20coccinea.
- “Etlingera Coccinea (Red Torch Ginger).” World of Flowering Plants. Accessed June 4, 2021. https://worldoffloweringplants.com/etlingera-coccinea-red-torch-ginger/.
