Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Costaceae

Genus:

Costus

Species:

Costus spicatus

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb , Shrub , Subshrub

Height:

6-8 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

jun, jul, aug

Bloom Colors:

red

Native Range

United States: Puerto Rico

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 6.5 (slightly acidic)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

prefers organic matter-rich environments