This genus, commonly known as ginger lily or garland lily, is a member of the giner family and includes some 40 species of perennials native to tropical Asia, the Himalayan region, and Madagascar. Strong canelike tems with large deep green leaves, similar to the canna lily, emerge from heavy fleshy rhizomes. Ginger lilies are grown for their colorful and highly fragrant flowerheads, which are made up of a number of slender mostly tubular-shaped flowers that have protruding anthers. The flowers appear in summer and are mainly yellow or pink in color, although in some species they can be bright red. The fragrant roots of several Hedchium species are used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine.
CULTIVATION
These plants are mostly tolerant of light frosts and are capable of reshooting from the root stock. They are best planted in sun or shade with moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Cut back the stems of spent flowers and any old unproductive canes to encourage new growth. Water liberally during the growing season and add liquid fertilizer once a month. Propagate by division or from seed.
Top Tip
When the foliage of Hedychium species dies down, the fleshy stems can be lifted and overwintered, to be replaced in spring.
CULTIVATION
These plants are mostly tolerant of light frosts and are capable of reshooting from the root stock. They are best planted in sun or shade with moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Cut back the stems of spent flowers and any old unproductive canes to encourage new growth. Water liberally during the growing season and add liquid fertilizer once a month. Propagate by division or from seed.
Top Tip
When the foliage of Hedychium species dies down, the fleshy stems can be lifted and overwintered, to be replaced in spring.
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