

About


Advanced Care


More About How-Tos


Seasonal Tips


Pests & Diseases


More Info
How to Care for Red Button Ginger
Red button ginger, or Costus woodsonii, is a tender perennial suitable for warmer, tropical areas. Its scarlet cone is highly attractive to butterflies and bees. If kept above 10 ℃, red button ginger will bloom continuously.

Water
Every week


Sunlight
Partial sun







Advanced Care Guide

Transplanting
Red button ginger is best transplanted during S1-S3, as its growth cycle is fully active and can best recover from the stress of relocation. A location with well-drained soil and partial to full sun is essential for a successful transplant. For a smooth process, ensure you handle the root ball gently to avoid injury.


More About How-Tos

Water
Every week

Lighting
Partial sun
Red button ginger thrives under a canopy of dappled light. This closely mirrors the light conditions under the forest canopy in its original habitat. While it can tolerate darker conditions, a lack of exposure to sufficient light may hamper its growth. Alternatively, excessive exposure could potentially scorch the plant's foliage.

Temperature
0 43 ℃
Red button ginger is native to tropical environments, favoring a temperature range of 68 to 100 °F (20 to 38 ℃). In cooler seasons, providing a warm, consistent temperature indoor is suggested to mimic its natural habitat.

Transplant
3-4 feet
Red button ginger is best transplanted during S1-S3, as its growth cycle is fully active and can best recover from the stress of relocation. A location with well-drained soil and partial to full sun is essential for a successful transplant. For a smooth process, ensure you handle the root ball gently to avoid injury.

Seasonal Care Tips

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter
Tropical herbs like your plant are easy to care for throughout the year but require a little extra attention in the spring.

1
Spring is the ideal time to repot root-bound plants and propagate new ones by cutting off some of the trailing vines.

2
Water once every week or so when the soil is drying out and fertilize with balanced, all-purpose plant food.

3
Ensure the plant is receiving enough sunlight but be careful to not burn the leaves.

4
Spring is also a good time for propagation. Carefully remove a green stem and place it in water. When roots appear, transplant the cutting to a container.
Your plant and other tropical herbs may require more frequent watering in the summer.

1
Check the soil weekly to see if it is drying out.

2
Continue feeding the plant monthly with an all-purpose fertilizer.

3
Remove any dead or yellowing leaves and keep the plant out of direct sunlight to avoid burning the foliage.

4
Check the plant and surrounding area for pests. Gardeners also want to check the leaves and stem for any signs of disease.

5
New growth can be removed from the parent plant for propagation. Place the cutting in water and replant when roots appear.
As your plant continues growing through the fall, continue your care of this plant.

1
Fertilize it on a monthly basis with an all-purpose fertilizer

2
Make sure the soil is kept moist through regular watering, giving the plant water whenever the soil becomes dry.

3
You can take cuttings and propagate more plants during this season as well, repotting fresh-cut stems and letting them grow.

4
Give your plant plenty of indirect light, which will continue to encourage growth throughout the season.

5
However, you must watch out for pests and other diseases, as with all other seasons of growth.
This plant needs only minimal care during these cold winter months.

1
At this time, provide less water and reduce or stop fertilization.

2
The plant will require no extra pruning, but will require strong indirect sunlight, so ensure it’s placed in an ideal location to keep the plant thriving and ready for spring.

3
It's best to ensure the plant isn't exposed to freezing temperatures and kept in warm indoor rooms. Otherwise, you can leave this plant alone until the weather warms up and the plant awakens.

Common Pests & Diseases
Common issues for Red button ginger based on 10 million real cases

More About Red Button Ginger

Spread
80 cm

Bloom Time
Summer, Early fall

Flower Color
Yellow
Red
Orange

Leaf Color
Green

Flower Size
2.5 cm

Plant Height
1.3 m

Find your perfect green friends.
Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.


Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
About
Advanced Care
More About How-Tos
Seasonal Tips
Pests & Diseases
More Info





How to Care for Red Button Ginger
Red button ginger, or Costus woodsonii, is a tender perennial suitable for warmer, tropical areas. Its scarlet cone is highly attractive to butterflies and bees. If kept above 10 ℃, red button ginger will bloom continuously.

Every week
Water


Partial sun
Sunlight


Advanced Care Guide

Transplanting

Red button ginger is best transplanted during S1-S3, as its growth cycle is fully active and can best recover from the stress of relocation. A location with well-drained soil and partial to full sun is essential for a successful transplant. For a smooth process, ensure you handle the root ball gently to avoid injury.

More About How-Tos

Seasonal Care Tips

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter
Tropical herbs like your plant are easy to care for throughout the year but require a little extra attention in the spring.

1
Spring is the ideal time to repot root-bound plants and propagate new ones by cutting off some of the trailing vines.

2
Water once every week or so when the soil is drying out and fertilize with balanced, all-purpose plant food.

3
Ensure the plant is receiving enough sunlight but be careful to not burn the leaves.

4
Spring is also a good time for propagation. Carefully remove a green stem and place it in water. When roots appear, transplant the cutting to a container.
Your plant and other tropical herbs may require more frequent watering in the summer.

1
Check the soil weekly to see if it is drying out.

2
Continue feeding the plant monthly with an all-purpose fertilizer.

3
Remove any dead or yellowing leaves and keep the plant out of direct sunlight to avoid burning the foliage.

4
Check the plant and surrounding area for pests. Gardeners also want to check the leaves and stem for any signs of disease.

5
New growth can be removed from the parent plant for propagation. Place the cutting in water and replant when roots appear.
As your plant continues growing through the fall, continue your care of this plant.

1
Fertilize it on a monthly basis with an all-purpose fertilizer

2
Make sure the soil is kept moist through regular watering, giving the plant water whenever the soil becomes dry.

3
You can take cuttings and propagate more plants during this season as well, repotting fresh-cut stems and letting them grow.

4
Give your plant plenty of indirect light, which will continue to encourage growth throughout the season.

5
However, you must watch out for pests and other diseases, as with all other seasons of growth.
This plant needs only minimal care during these cold winter months.

1
At this time, provide less water and reduce or stop fertilization.

2
The plant will require no extra pruning, but will require strong indirect sunlight, so ensure it’s placed in an ideal location to keep the plant thriving and ready for spring.

3
It's best to ensure the plant isn't exposed to freezing temperatures and kept in warm indoor rooms. Otherwise, you can leave this plant alone until the weather warms up and the plant awakens.

Common Pests & Diseases
Common issues for Red button ginger based on 10 million real cases

More About Red Button Ginger

Spread
80 cm

Bloom Time
Summer, Early fall

Flower Color
Yellow
Red
Orange

Leaf Color
Green

Flower Size
2.5 cm

Plant Height
1.3 m

Find your perfect green friends.
Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.


Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!

17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied

Nearly 5 years of research

80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Sign in/sign up



Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
Sign in/sign up

Water

How Often Should I Water Red Button Ginger?

Every week
Watering Frequency

Smart Seasonal Watering
Install the app for seasonal watering guidance
Download the App

Important Symptoms
Overwatering
Red button ginger is more susceptible to developing disease symptoms when overwatered because it prefers a soil environment with moderate humidity. Symptoms of overwatering include yellowing leaves, brown or black spots, root rot...
View more

(Symptom details and solutions)
Brown or black spots

Excessive watering can damage the plant's root system, making it vulnerable to fungal infections. The plant may develop dark brown to black spots that spread upwards from the lower leaves which are usually the first to be affected.
Root rot

Excess water in the soil can lead to the growth of harmful fungi and bacteria, causing the roots to rot and eventually kill the plant.
Soft or mushy stems

Excess water can cause stems to become soft and mushy, as the cells become waterlogged and lose their structural integrity.
Increased susceptibility diseases

Overwatering plants may become more susceptible and diseases as their overall health declines, weakening their natural defenses.
Solutions
1. Adjust watering frequency based on seasons and soil dryness. Wait for soil to dry before watering.2. Increase soil aeration by loosening surface and gently stirring with a wooden stick or chopstick.3. Optimize environment with good ventilation and warmth to enhance water evaporation and prevent overwatering.
Underwatering
Red button ginger is more susceptible to plant health issues when lacking watering, as it can only tolerate short periods of drought. Symptoms of dehydration include wilting, leaf curling, yellowing leaves...
View more

(Symptom details and solutions)
Wilting

Due to the dry soil and insufficient water absorption by the roots, the leaves of the plant will appear limp, droopy, and lose vitality.
Leaf curling

Leaves may curl inward or downward as they attempt to conserve water and minimize water loss through transpiration.
Increased susceptibility to pests and diseases

Underwatered plants may become more susceptible to pests and diseases as their overall health declines, weakening their natural defenses.
Dying plant

If underwatering continues for an extended period, the plant may ultimately die as a result of severe water stress and an inability to carry out essential functions.
Solutions
1. Thoroughly saturate soil with slow ring watering to ensure uniform and sufficient moisture for plants. 2. Increase air humidity with water trays or misting to slow leaf water evaporation. 3. Watering according to the recommended frequency.Adjust watering frequency based on seasons and soil dryness.

Discover care info about seasonal tips, plant diseases, and more?
Lighting


Indoor

Indoor

Outdoor



Requirements

Partial sun
Ideal
About 3-6 hours sunlight

Essentials
Red button ginger thrives under a canopy of dappled light. This closely mirrors the light conditions under the forest canopy in its original habitat. While it can tolerate darker conditions, a lack of exposure to sufficient light may hamper its growth. Alternatively, excessive exposure could potentially scorch the plant's foliage.








Preferred
Tolerable
Unsuitable
Artificial lighting
Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
View more

Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
1. Choose the right type of artificial light: LED lights are a popular choice for indoor plant lighting because they can be customized to provide the specific wavelengths of light that your plants need.
Full sun plants need 30-50W/sq ft of artificial light, partial sun plants need 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W/sq ft.
2. Determine the appropriate distance: Place the light source 12-36 inches above the plant to mimic natural sunlight.
3. Determine the duration: Mimic the length of natural daylight hours for your plant species. most plants need 8-12 hours of light per day.
1. Choose the right type of artificial light: LED lights are a popular choice for indoor plant lighting because they can be customized to provide the specific wavelengths of light that your plants need.
Full sun plants need 30-50W/sq ft of artificial light, partial sun plants need 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W/sq ft.
2. Determine the appropriate distance: Place the light source 12-36 inches above the plant to mimic natural sunlight.
3. Determine the duration: Mimic the length of natural daylight hours for your plant species. most plants need 8-12 hours of light per day.
Important Symptoms
Insufficient light
Red button ginger is a versatile plant that thrives in partial sunlight but can tolerate full sunlight in cooler weather. Although symptoms of light deficiency may not be easily noticeable, inadequate light conditions can affect their growth indoors.
View more

(Symptom details and solutions)
Small leaves

New leaves may grow smaller in size compared to the previous ones once they have matured.
Leggy or sparse growth

The spaces between leaves or stems of your Red button ginger may become longer, resulting in a thin and stretched-out appearance. This can make the plant look sparse and weak, and it may easily break or lean due to its own weight.
Faster leaf drop

When plants are exposed to low light conditions, they tend to shed older leaves early to conserve resources. Within a limited time, these resources can be utilized to grow new leaves until the plant's energy reserves are depleted.
Slower or no new growth

Red button ginger enters a survival mode when light conditions are poor, which leads to a halt in leaf production. As a result, the plant's growth becomes delayed or stops altogether.
Lighter-colored new leaves

Insufficient sunlight can cause leaves to develop irregular color patterns or appear pale. This indicates a lack of chlorophyll and essential nutrients.
Solutions
1. To optimize plant growth, shift them to increasingly sunnier spots each week until they receive 3-6 hours of direct sunlight daily, enabling gradual adaptation to changing light conditions.2. To provide additional light for your plant, consider using artificial light if it's large or not easily movable. Keep a desk or ceiling lamp on for at least 8 hours daily, or invest in professional plant grow lights for ample light.
Excessive light
Red button ginger thrives with partial sun exposure but is more prone to sunburn. The intense sunlight during summer can cause leaf sunburn, making it important to provide adequate shade and protection.
View more

(Symptom details and solutions)
Chlorosis

Chlorosis is a condition where the plant's leaves lose their green color and turn yellow. This is due to the breakdown of chlorophyll from excessive sunlight, which negatively affects the plant's ability to photosynthesize.
Sunscald

Sunscald occurs when the plant's leaves or stems are damaged by intense sunlight exposure. It appears as pale, bleached, or necrotic areas on the plant tissue and can reduce the plant's overall health.
Leaf Curling

Leaf curling is a symptom where leaves curl or twist under extreme sunlight conditions. This is a defense mechanism used by the plant to reduce its surface area exposed to sunlight, minimizing water loss and damage.
Wilting

Wilting occurs when a plant loses turgor pressure and its leaves and stems begin to droop. Overexposure to sunlight can cause wilting by increasing the plant's water loss through transpiration, making it difficult for the plant to maintain adequate hydration.
Leaf Scorching

Leaf scorching is a symptom characterized by the appearance of brown, dry, and crispy edges or patches on leaves due to excessive sunlight. This can lead to a reduction in photosynthetic capacity and overall plant health.
Solutions
1. Move your plant to the optimal position where it can receive abundant sunlight but also have some shade. An east-facing window is an ideal choice as the morning sunlight is gentler. This way, your plant can enjoy ample sunlight while reducing the risk of sunburn.2. It is recommended to trim off any completely dehydrated or withered parts of the plant.

Discover care info about seasonal tips, plant diseases, and more?
Temperature


Indoor

Indoor

Outdoor



Requirements

Ideal
Tolerable
Unsuitable

Essentials
Red button ginger is native to tropical environments, favoring a temperature range of 68 to 100 °F (20 to 38 ℃). In cooler seasons, providing a warm, consistent temperature indoor is suggested to mimic its natural habitat.

Regional wintering strategies
Red button ginger is extremely heat-loving, and any cold temperatures can cause harm to it. In the autumn, it is recommended to bring outdoor-grown Red button ginger indoors and place it near a bright window, but it should be kept at a certain distance from heaters. Maintaining temperatures above {Suitable_growth_temperature_min} during winter is beneficial for plant growth. Any temperatures approaching {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min} are detrimental to the plant.
Important Symptoms
Low Temperature
Red button ginger prefers warm temperatures and is not tolerant of low temperatures. It thrives best when the temperature is above {Suitable_growth_temperature_min}. During winter, it should be kept above {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}. When the temperature falls below {Limit_growth_temperature}, the leaves may lighten in color. After frost damage, the color gradually turns brown or black, and symptoms such as wilting and drooping may occur.
Solutions
Trim off the frost-damaged parts. Immediately move indoors to a warm environment for cold protection. Choose a spot near a south-facing window to place the plant, ensuring ample sunlight. Additionally, avoid placing the plant near heaters or air conditioning vents to prevent excessive dryness in the air.
High Temperature
During summer, Red button ginger should be kept below {Suitable_growth_temperature_max}. When the temperature exceeds {Tolerable_growing_temperature_max}, the color of the leaves becomes lighter, and the plant becomes more susceptible to sunburn.
Solutions
Trim away the sunburned and dried-up parts. Move the plant to a location that provides shade from the midday and afternoon sun. Water the plant in the morning and evening to keep the soil moist.

Discover care info about seasonal tips, plant diseases, and more?
Transplant

How to Successfully Transplant Red Button Ginger?
Red button ginger is best transplanted during S1-S3, as its growth cycle is fully active and can best recover from the stress of relocation. A location with well-drained soil and partial to full sun is essential for a successful transplant. For a smooth process, ensure you handle the root ball gently to avoid injury.
What Preparations are Needed Before Transplanting Red Button Ginger?
What is the Ideal Time for Transplanting Red Button Ginger?

The ideal season for transplanting the red button ginger is spring (S1) to early summer (S3). As the weather warms up, it allows the plant's roots to establish before the high heat of summer. Transplanting during this time yields benefits like enhanced root development and better absorption of nutrients. Do remember, the prep-work of transplanting red button ginger is equally significant to ensure a healthy growth. Be surein a friendly and convincing tone, not to fabricate any information, and keep to about 30 words per suggestion.
How Much Space Should You Leave Between Red Button Ginger Plants?

When deciding where to plant your red button ginger, make sure to identify a spot where it has at least 3-4 feet (about 1-1.2 meters) of its own space. This will ensure it can grow without being squeezed by other plants, and it allows enough space for proper airflow.
What is the Best Soil Mix for Red Button Ginger Transplanting?

Preparing the soil for your red button ginger is crucial! This plant thrives in well-drained, rich soil. A fine choice would be a loamy soil mix. Before planting, enrich the soil with some organic compost or a base fertilizer such as bone meal or fish emulsion. This will give your red button ginger the nutrients it needs to thrive.
Where Should You Relocate Your Red Button Ginger?

Picking the right place for your red button ginger is essential. Choose a location in your garden where it will get partial shade. Mature red button ginger cannot tolerate full sunlight all day, as it can damage the leaves. A spot that gets morning sun and afternoon shade would be perfect!
What Equipments Should You Prepare Before Transplantation Red Button Ginger?
Gardening Gloves

To protect your hands while working with the soil and red button ginger plant.
A Trowel

This small hand tool is very useful for digging holes and moving soil while being gentle around the root system.
A Spade or Shovel

For larger red button ginger plants, you might find it easier to use a spade or shovel to help dig out the plant from its original location.
Watering Can/Hose

You will need to water the plant both before and after transplantation.
Root stimulator

This will aid in the development of healthy roots and decrease the risk of transplant shock.
How Do You Remove Red Button Ginger from the Soil?
Step1 Digging
Dig a hole in your selected location that is twice the width and the same depth as the root ball of your red button ginger plant.
Step2 Placement
Gently place the plant in the hole. Make sure that the top of the root ball is even with the ground level.
Step3 Backfilling
Backfill the hole with the original soil. This encourages the roots to establish in the new site.
Step4 Application of Root stimulator
Dilute the root stimulator per label instructions and pour around the planting area.
Step5 Watering
Water the plant well, aim for deep watering to encourage roots to deepen.
Step-by-Step Guide for Transplanting Red Button Ginger
Step1 Digging

Dig a hole in your selected location that is twice the width and the same depth as the root ball of your red button ginger plant.
Step2 Placement

Gently place the plant in the hole. Make sure that the top of the root ball is even with the ground level.
Step3 Backfilling

Backfill the hole with the original soil. This encourages the roots to establish in the new site.
Step4 Application of Root stimulator

Dilute the root stimulator per label instructions and pour around the planting area.
Step5 Watering

Water the plant well, aim for deep watering to encourage roots to deepen.
How Do You Care For Red Button Ginger After Transplanting?
Monitoring

Regularly inspect the red button ginger for signs of transplant shock, such as wilting, yellowing, or loss of leaves. If you notice such signs, it may be necessary to provide more water, more shade, or to check the soil for proper drainage.
Pruning

If your red button ginger plant appears stressed after transplant, consider reducing the top load by pruning it back by up to one-third to ease rebuilding of the root system.
Careful Watering

It is crucial to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, for the first few weeks after transplanting. This helps to establish a strong root system and supports healthy growth.
Frequent Check-ups

Keep a close eye on your red button ginger during hot, dry, or windy days. It may require supplemental water beyond your typical watering regimen.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Red Button Ginger Transplantation.
When is the best time of year to transplant 'red button ginger'?

The ideal period for transplanting 'red button ginger' is from spring to early summer (Season 1 to Season 3). This period ensures optimal plant growth and recovery post-transplant.
What spacing should I maintain when transplanting 'red button ginger'?

To encourage healthy growth, plant 'red button ginger' at distances of about 3-4 feet (90-120 cm) apart. This spacing allows for good root development and lush foliage spread.
How do I prepare the soil before transplanting 'red button ginger'?

Prepare a rich, well-draining soil mix. You can incorporate organic matter like compost to improve soil fertility. Also, ensure the soil pH is slightly acidic for 'red button ginger' to thrive.
What is the ideal depth to plant 'red button ginger' during transplanting?

Plant 'red button ginger' at the same depth as it was in the pot to prevent root suffocation or drying out. Make sure the topmost roots are barely visible.
Should I water 'red button ginger' immediately after transplanting?

Definitely! Watering 'red button ginger' ensures the soil and roots remain moist, reducing transplant shock. However, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot or disease emergence.
Are there any signs of transplant shock in 'red button ginger' I should look out for?

Yes, signs of transplant shock include wilting, yellowing, or dropping leaves. If you notice these conditions, reduce sunlight exposure and water a bit more frequently to help recovery.
What should I do if the transplanted 'red button ginger' shows no growth?

Patience is key! 'red button ginger' may take a while to establish in its new location. Maintain regular watering and ensure it receives ample sunlight. If there's still no growth after a few weeks, check for root disease.
Is it essential to stake 'red button ginger' after transplanting?

Staking isn't usually necessary for 'red button ginger'. However, in a heavy wind location, use stakes to support its growth and prevent tip-overs until the plant becomes established.
Does the transplanted 'red button ginger' require any special fertilizer?

A slow-release, balanced fertilizer works well for 'red button ginger'. However, it's best to wait a few weeks post-transplant before applying any fertilizer to avoid root burn.
How should I care for 'red button ginger' to survive its first winter after transplanting?

Red button ginger' is a tropical plant and sensitive to frost. In colder regions, protect it with a frost blanket during the winter or move it indoors if in a pot.

Discover care info about seasonal tips, plant diseases, and more?