Red button ginger (single plant)

The Red Button Ginger (Costus woodsonii), also called Scarlet Spiral Flag, is a tropical plant known for its striking red, button-like flower bracts and lush, vibrant foliage. It’s a popular choice in tropical and subtropical gardens due to its unique, exotic look.

Characteristics:

• Flowers: Bright red, rounded bracts resembling buttons from which small yellow flowers occasionally emerge, especially in warmer months. The bracts are long-lasting, adding color even when flowers are absent.
• Foliage: Broad, glossy green leaves arranged in a spiral pattern along the stem, providing an attractive structure.
• Growth Habit: Clump-forming, upright stems that can reach 2-4 feet in height. It has a moderately fast growth rate in tropical climates.
• Sun Requirements: Prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun if kept consistently moist. Too much direct sun in hot climates can scorch the leaves.
• Soil and Water Needs: Thrives in well-drained, consistently moist soil enriched with organic matter. Regular watering is beneficial, especially in dry periods.

Uses:

• Ornamental Landscaping: Ideal for borders, tropical gardens, and as an accent plant to bring color and texture. It works well alongside other tropical plants.
• Container Planting: Suitable for pots and containers on patios, especially in climates where it needs to be brought inside during cooler months.
• Pollinator Attraction: The small yellow flowers attract pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds when in bloom.

The Red Button Ginger is relatively low-maintenance and can add a bright pop of color with minimal effort. In cooler climates, it can be grown as an indoor or seasonal outdoor plant. However, it should be brought indoors when temperatures drop, as it is sensitive to frost.