Curcuma 'Red Emperor' — Clump forming, Columnar upright

Overview

Curcuma 'Red Emperor' is a clump forming, columnar upright herbaceous perennial in the genus Curcuma, part of the Zingiberaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Curcuma 'Red Emperor' grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include patio and container plants, sub-tropical, houseplants and conservatory and greenhouse.

About

Curcuma 'Red Emperor' is a clump-forming, columnar upright herbaceous perennial from the genus Curcuma, known for its long, dark green foliage and tall flower spikes. This evergreen cultivar thrives in partial shade with a sheltered aspect, preferring moist but well-drained loam or sandy soils across a range of pH levels. Suited to conservatories, greenhouses, patios, and containers, it requires protection in the UK (H1a hardiness) and is propagated by division. 'Red Emperor' is particularly notable in spring, adding a tropical touch to indoor and sheltered outdoor spaces.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Curcuma

Sunlight: Partial shade
Soil type: Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H1a

Plant details

Curcuma 'Red Emperor' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial, Conservatory Greenhouse, Herbs - Culinary
Habit: Clump forming, Columnar upright
Foliage: Evergreen
Suggested uses: Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical, Houseplants, Conservatory and greenhouse