Hedychium greenii (Red Butterfly Ginger) – Exotic Foliage Plant with Brilliant Summer Flowers

Hedychium greenii Care Guide

Hedychium greenii thrives in warm, humid environments with rich, moist, well-draining soil. Plant in full sun to partial shade, ensuring protection from strong winds. Water regularly during the growing season to maintain consistent moisture, but reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant. Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly from spring to early autumn to encourage vigorous growth and flowering. In cooler regions, mulch heavily in autumn to protect the rhizomes from frost, or grow in containers that can be moved indoors during winter. Prune spent flower spikes to tidy the plant and encourage new growth.

Hedychium greenii key features

Hedychium greenii, also known as Red Butterfly Ginger, is a standout tropical plant admired for its lush dark green foliage with striking maroon-red undersides and stems. From mid to late summer, it produces vibrant orange-red, butterfly-shaped flowers that add a bold splash of colour to the garden. Compact in form, it typically reaches 90–120 cm tall, making it ideal for borders, subtropical planting schemes, or container displays. One of its unique traits is the production of plantlets on spent flower spikes, making propagation easy. With its exotic look, non-toxic nature, and low maintenance needs, Hedychium greenii brings dramatic structure and tropical flair to warm New Zealand gardens.