The Story
Plant Bio
Hedychium coccineum, commonly known as Scarlet Ginger Lily, is a perennial herbaceous plant distinguished by its tall, arching stems and vibrant red, tubular flowers arranged in terminal spikes, complemented by lush, green, lance-shaped foliage.
This species is celebrated for its striking, showy red flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies, and it thrives in warm, humid environments, making it a popular choice for tropical and subtropical gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
48 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Regular watering, keep moist
Humidity
Prefers high humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Himalayas and Southeast Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in well-draining soil
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy
- Place in partial shade for best flowering results
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during growing season
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring
Pro Tip
Ensure soil remains consistently moist for lush growth
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture
- Prune dead or damaged stems in early spring
- Fertilize monthly during active growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent rhizome rot ❌
- Don’t place in full sun, as leaves may scorch
- Refrain from heavy fertilization late in the season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Scarlet Ginger Lily questions
What zones can Scarlet Ginger Lily grow in?
Scarlet Ginger Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Scarlet Ginger Lily deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Scarlet Ginger Lily, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Scarlet Ginger Lily bloom?
Scarlet Ginger Lily typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Scarlet Ginger Lily need full sun?
Scarlet Ginger Lily does best in part shade.
More Hedychium to compare
Mutant Ginger Lily
Hedychium x hybrida 'Mutant'
Ginger Lily Butterfly Ginger
Hedychium coronarium
Compactum Kahili Ginger
Hedychium gardnerianum 'Compactum'
Raffill's Ginger
Hedychium raffillii
Yellow Ginger Lily
Hedychium flavescens
Tara Ginger Lily
Hedychium x moorei 'Tara'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Scarlet Ginger Lily with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.