A Striking Tropical Flowering Plant
Dichorisandra thyrsiflora, commonly known as Blue Ginger, is a highly decorative tropical perennial grown for its lush foliage and vivid cobalt-blue flowers.
Native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, particularly Brazil, this beautiful species resembles true ginger in both growth habit and appearance, although it is actually a member of the spiderwort family rather than the ginger family.
With its bold upright growth and brilliant flower spikes, Blue Ginger brings a lush subtropical look to shaded gardens, courtyards and large containers.
Spectacular Blue Flowers
One of the most striking features of Dichorisandra thyrsiflora is the intense blue-purple flowers produced from late summer through autumn.
Large terminal flower spikes emerge above tall leafy stems, carrying vibrant cobalt-blue flowers with contrasting yellow centres. In full bloom the flowers are unlike almost any other garden plant and create an excellent display in protected tropical style gardens.
The foliage itself is also attractive, with smooth glossy leaves arranged spirally along fleshy upright stems.
Growing Conditions and Care
Blue Ginger thrives in tropical and subtropical climates where winters are mild. In Australia it performs especially well in warmer coastal regions, however with protection it can also be grown successfully as far south as Melbourne.
In cooler climates plants will usually die back during winter before reshooting once warmer weather returns in spring.
Position
For best growth plant in a warm protected position with filtered light or part shade. Shelter from strong winds is recommended as the stems can be somewhat brittle.
Soil
Dichorisandra thyrsiflora prefers a moist, humus-rich and well drained soil. Improve poor soils with compost before planting.
Watering
Keep soil reasonably moist during active growth, particularly through warmer months. Avoid allowing plants to dry out completely during summer.
Frost Protection
Protection from frost is important, especially in cooler climates. Heavy frost can damage foliage and stems.
Growing Blue Ginger in Pots
In cooler regions Blue Ginger is particularly well suited to container growing. Pots can easily be moved to a warm protected position during winter and placed outdoors again once temperatures rise.
Use a quality free draining potting mix and avoid exposing containers to cold winds or frost.
Size and Growth Habit
Under good conditions Dichorisandra thyrsiflora will form a lush clump to around 1 metre tall, gradually spreading by underground runners.
Its upright growth makes it useful as a feature plant beneath trees, beside patios or in tropical style planting schemes.
Propagation
Propagation is simple and usually carried out by division.
As the plant spreads by underground runners, established clumps can be lifted and divided during winter or early spring.
Plants may also be propagated successfully from stem cuttings.
Maintenance
Very little maintenance is required once plants are established.
Remove damaged or frost affected growth as new shoots appear in spring and apply mulch around plants to help maintain soil moisture through summer.
Flower stems are sometimes cut for indoor arrangements, however care should be taken as the stems can snap easily.
Is Blue Ginger a True Ginger?
Despite the common name, Blue Ginger is not a true ginger. While it closely resembles ginger plants in growth habit and foliage, it actually belongs to the spiderwort family (Commelinaceae).
Why Grow Blue Ginger?
- Brilliant cobalt-blue flowers from summer into autumn
- Excellent tropical foliage plant
- Ideal for protected gardens and containers
- Suited to subtropical and tropical climates
- Low maintenance once established
- Unusual flowers rarely seen in other garden plants
Quick Growing Notes
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Dichorisandra thyrsiflora |
| Common Name | Blue Ginger |
| Plant Type | Tropical perennial |
| Height | Around 1 metre |
| Flower Colour | Cobalt blue with yellow centres |
| Position | Part shade to filtered light |
| Soil | Moist, well drained |
| Climate | Tropical to subtropical |
| Flowering Time | Summer to autumn |
| Frost Tolerance | Low |
| Propagation | Division and cuttings |
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