Tiger Ginger, Orange Ginger
hedychium coccineum
Also known as: ["Tiger Flower Ginger","Scarlet Ginger Lily"]
Overview
A tall, herbaceous perennial with striking orange-red flowers and fragrant foliage, native to the Himalayas.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Zingiberales |
| Family: | Zingiberaceae |
| Genus: | Hedychium |
| Botanical Name: | Hedychium coccineum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: partial shade garden bed or container with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry conditions
- Drainage: Well-draining to moderately draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or overgrown stems unless rejuvenation is needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of morning sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to sunlight gradually; avoid direct midday sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Use sheer curtains to filter intense light; rotate plant for even growth; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and rainfall.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-draining loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure soil is loose and airy; test pH if growth is poor.
Temperature
Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers mild temperatures; can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but not prolonged cold.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; switch to low-nitrogen formula if foliage grows excessively.
Propagation
Methods
Rhizome division or stem cuttings with nodes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes with at least one growth bud.
- Plant cuttings in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid until rooted.
Best Time: Early spring before new growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–80°F (21–27°C) for cuttings.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use sphagnum moss for cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone can be used for stem cuttings but is not essential for rhizome division.
Timeline
Rhizome division: immediate growth; stem cuttings: roots in 4–6 weeks, mature plant in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Ensure rhizomes have viable buds; use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain humidity for cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or just above a healthy bud; thin out crowded growth to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to encourage new growth; shape plant to maintain desired form.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead growth; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any damaged roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rhizome health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for weather conditions.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-decomposed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf damage in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can damage rhizomes; prolonged cold may cause dieback.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; move potted plants to a sheltered location; protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring-summer); dilute to half strength; avoid fertilizing in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHedychium coccineum is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant is generally considered safe for feline consumption and contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHedychium coccineum is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant is generally considered safe for canine consumption and contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHedychium coccineum is not known to have toxic effects on humans. The plant is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Hedychium coccineum grow?
A: It can grow up to 6 feet tall in optimal conditions.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, though partial shade is preferred in hot climates.
Q: Is it cold hardy?
A: It is hardy to USDA zones 7-10, but may require protection in colder regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Zingiberaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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