General Description/History

Originally from the Himalayas, Ginger Lily is now widespread and is a popular garden plant. It has become an invasive weed in temperate parts of the world, including Australia and NZ.

Plants consist of long thick canes (like bamboo) that can reach up to 2 metres in height. Large, broad, bright green to olive green leaves (up to 40 cm long) run up the canes, and in late summer large flower spikes are borne at the tip of each cane. The red and yellow flowers are borne on a spike-like cluster and have a wonderful fragrance. Petals are creamy yellow or orange in colour, and the stamens are protruding and bright red. The flower petals are arranged so that they slightly resemble a butterfly.

What to look for

• Spikes with a few flowers just starting to open;
• Strong fragrance
• Fresh, undamaged leaves;
• Avoid bunches where all the flowers are open.

Flower Care

1. Keep cool at all times
2. Strip leaves from the bottom half of each stem.
3. Recut at least 2 cm off each stem and place in cold water.
4. Always use a preservative as this will help buds open and maintain scent.
5. Replace vase water with fresh preservative every day.

Botanical Name: Hedychium gardnerianum

Common Names: Kahili ginger, Ginger Lily

Stem Length: Up to 2m

Country of Origin: India

Available Colours: Cream, Orange, Red, White

Season: Autumn

Availability: March,April,May