Ornamental Gingers
Hedychium are the ornamental gingers best represented by Hedychium coronarium ( white hedychium or white garland lily) and Hedychium gardnerianum a yellow flowering species.
These are wonderful plants to add a tropical look to cool climate gardens. The lush green foliage and bright flowers from summer to autumn work well in a balinese style garden design. They also attract bees, butterflies and nectar seeking birds to the garden.
Hedychium greenii has nice red flowers and is known as the ‘Scarlet Ginger’. These plants can be grown in the garden or in containers or pots if required and are readily available for sale online.
Most species will reach from 1.5 to 2m in height and with attractive butterfly like flowers in summer are excellent for the rear of the border where they add some height.
How to Grow Hedychium – Basic Care
These are fragrant flowering plants that require a humus rich moist, but well drained soil to perform at their best. Protect from frost for best results.
- Humus rich moist soil
- Good drainage
- Full sun to part shade
- Sheltered position in windy areas.
Over time Hedychium will form a large clump and will need to be divided. Division is best in early spring before new growth begins.
Hedychium are from the foothills of the Himalayas and grow well in cooler climates, fragrant flowers and a hardy nature make these an excellent garden plant for temperate climates.
Hedychium are available for sale from the following nurseries
Large range of Rare, Unusual and Old Fashioned Perennials. Includes Artemisias, Achilleas, Geraniums, Geums, Salvias, Penstemon and Francoa.
www.yellowhouseheritageperennials.com.au
412 James Lane, Fern Hill VIC. 3458 - Phone 0419002651
Large range of Rare plants, Climbers, Bulbs, Perennials Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. Available both Retail and by Mail Order
www.whitehousenursery.com.au