About

Etlingera elatior, the Philippine waxflower or torch ginger, is a spectacular, tall, rhizomatous perennial to 5 m or more with cane-like stems bearing large, aromatic, lance-shaped leaves and extraordinary waxy, torch-like flowerheads of brilliant red bracts emerging directly from the ground on separate, short stems. The flowers are widely used in tropical floral arrangements. A dramatic foliage and flower plant for a heated greenhouse or frost-free tropical garden.

About the genus

Etlingera are large, rhizomatous perennials in the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) from Southeast Asia, producing tall, leafy stems and spectacular waxy flowerheads on separate, short ground-level stems. Grown as ornamental plants in heated glasshouses and frost-free tropical gardens.

Plant details

Suggested usesContainers, rock gardens, dry gardens.

Care notes

CultivationPlant in very well-drained, gritty compost. Full sun.
PruningMinimal pruning needed. Remove dead leaves.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed as appropriate.
Pest resistanceMealybugs and vine weevil may occur.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.
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