Overview
Hedychium gardnerianum is a perennial herb in the genus Hedychium, part of the Zingiberaceae family. It typically grows around 2.44 metres tall. Hedychium gardnerianum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils and acidic to neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include ornamental, borders and tropical gardens. It is native to Nepal to Indo-China.
About
Hedychium gardnerianum is an erect perennial herb in the ginger family that reaches about 2.44 metres and produces tall flower spikes. Its blooms are fragrant and appear in the height of summer. Plant where the flower scent can be enjoyed and where the spike height suits the border.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Hedychium gardnerianum
About the genus
Hedychium is a genus of flowering plants in the ginger family Zingiberaceae, native to lightly wooded habitats in Asia. There are approximately 70-80 known species, native to India, Southeast Asia, and Madagascar. Some species have become widely naturalized in other lands, and considered invasive in some places.
Wikipedia contributors, "Hedychium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Hedychium
In the garden
Hedychium gardnerianum is a member of the Zingiberaceae, native from Nepal to Indo-China and valued for its summer flower spikes. It grows as a perennial herb to roughly 2.44 metres, producing scent-rich flowers that sit above the foliage from July to September. For cultivation in Britain choose a position in full sun or partial shade and provide fertile, well-drained soil that remains moist with an acidic to neutral pH. The UK hardiness rating H5 (hardy) applies; use that as a guide when deciding where to place it in the garden and when planning winter protection for exposed sites. Flower scent comes from the blooms rather than the foliage, so allow room for the spikes to be appreciated. Use Kahili Ginger as an ornamental specimen at the back of a mixed border, in tropical-style planting, or where tall summer structure is wanted. Its height makes it suitable for screens or strong back-layer planting, and the fragrant spikes reliably mark the July to September flowering period.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Hedychium
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, fertile
- Soil pH
- acidic to neutral
- Soil moisture
- moist
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Hedychium gardnerianum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial herb
- Height
- 2.44 metres
- Suggested uses
- ornamental, borders, tropical gardens
- Native to
- Nepal to Indo-China
- Fragrance
- Flower
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Hedychium gardnerianum
- Cultivation
- Prefers sheltered position; protect from frost; mulch in winter
- Pruning
- Cut back dead stems after flowering
- Propagation
- division of rhizomes, seed
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Hedychium gardnerianum?
Prefers sheltered position; protect from frost; mulch in winter.
Where is the best place to plant Hedychium gardnerianum?
Hedychium gardnerianum prefers full sun and partial shade.
What soil does Hedychium gardnerianum need?
Hedychium gardnerianum grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. It prefers acidic to neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Hedychium gardnerianum?
Cut back dead stems after flowering.
How big does Hedychium gardnerianum grow?
Hedychium gardnerianum reaches a height of 2.44 metres.
Is Hedychium gardnerianum hardy in the UK?
Hedychium gardnerianum has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Hedychium gardnerianum?
Division of rhizomes, seed.