About
A tuberous perennial to 40cm tall, with lance-shaped leaves with red edges. In summer it bears cream or yellow flowers to 6cm across, with the lip often streaked purple.
About the genus
Roscoea are tuberous perennials with arching, linear or lance-shaped leaves and showy orchid-like flowers in summer or autumn
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Care notes
CultivationPlant tubers 15cm deep in winter or early spring. Grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well drained soil in a cool, sheltered site in partial shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe. Divide in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and vine weevil
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free