Hedychium flavescens

yellow ginger
Powerfully fragrant, pale-yellow flowers emerge in summer-fall atop stems of lush, evergreen foliage. Upright to leaning. Crop unsightly foliage at base. Regrows after frost.
height 6–8ft
width 2–6ft
tolerates Moist Soil, Pots
water
needs		 Moderate – High
water
info		 Water this plant regularly late spring through early fall. Use drippers, emitters, or a slow stream of water so that it doesn’t run off; allow the water to trickle all the way down through the deepest layers of soil. In a pot slowly water the entire surface until water comes out of the bottom of your pot.

This plant rests during winter and has succulent rhizomes to store energy, making it quite drought tolerant during this time. With good drainage it won’t mind ample water, but if the soil is heavy it is better to go light on watering during winter, allowing the soil to mostly dry out.
hardy
to		 10F
exposure Full Shade – Full Sun
indoor
outdoor		 Outdoor
drainage In Ground: Planting Mix, In Pots: Potting Soil, Tolerates Heavy Soil
fertilizing All Purpose, Palm Fertilizer
origin Himalayas, S. China, N. Vietnam
california
native		 No
sunset
zones		 6, 8, 9, 12–H2

Sunset Zones Map

Outdoor Exposure Guide

Growing Notes

Foliage is replaced yearly, giving you two pruning options; the foliage can be completely cut down during winter, or it can be selectively removed in late spring once replaced by new growth. The first method is easier, and often the leaves are damaged and unsightly after winter storms anyway.
Lush foliage is damaged by frost but rhizomes overwinter to 10F with a good layer of mulch.
Shelter from full sun inland.

Special Interest

The flowers’ scent can’t be understated. Bring the tropics to your garden.