Costus sp. 'Peruvian Yellow'

Also Known As

Peruvian Yellow Spiral Ginger

Plant type

perennial, bulb / corm / tuber

size

H: 2'-3'
W: 2'-3'

planting zones

10a-11

More Options

Costus sp. 'Peruvian Yellow' plant details

Costus sp. 'Peruvian Yellow' is a broadleaf evergreen perennial bulb / corm / tuber with green foliage. In summer red flowers emerge. Attracts hummingbirds. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and regular water. Does well in well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Costus sp. 'Peruvian Yellow'

Plant type: perennial bulb / corm / tuber
Plant family: costaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 2 FT - 3 FT - wide, 2 FT - 3 FT - tall
Flowers: red blooms in summer
Uses: fragrant, tropical-looking

GROWING CONDITIONS for Costus sp. 'Peruvian Yellow'

USDA Zones: 10a - 11
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: regular
Resistant to: verticillium wilt
Soil needs: well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

We originally bought this Costus from Aloha Tropicals as Costus sp. Peruvian Pineapple, it clearly is not. It has a terminal bright yellow cone shaped inflorescence with brilliant red day flowers. The contrast between the waxy yellow cone and the bright red flowers is beautiful. The stems are large without pubescence and the leaves are a light green. This plant has returned from the last two winters outside with 14 °F nights. I have also seen it listed as unknown species 'Belieze Yellow' and 'Belitz Yellow' but I don't think anyone knows exactly what species it is or where it originated from. What I do know is it's a rare Costus worth growing both for it's beauty and cold hardiness. These are large blooming size 1 gallons, some have buds forming.