Scientific Name: Costus barbatus
Common Name:
Hardiness: Zones 8 to 11
Ornamental Features:
Flowers
are bright red on sturdy stems. It grows to 4-5 feet high with a very bushy
growth habit.
Habit and Growth Rate:
Excellent
in shady areas as a specimen plant; it can also be used as a potted patio plant
or an interior pot plant.
Pot Size and Finish Time:
Best
suited for a 10” pot size and will finish in about 4 months.
Culture:
Light: 70-75% shade
Temperature: 55° - 95° F
Soil
/ Watering:
Use a slightly acidic, well draining professional
mix, keep evenly moist.
Fertilizer: Liquid feed with complete fertilizer at 200-250 ppm (N), weekly.
Supplement with magnesium sulfate at 1/4 pound per 100 gallons once per month.
For top dress or soil incorporation, follow label rates.
Pest/Disease Problems:
Employ good sanitation practices to avoid fungal
and bacterial pathogens. A preventative drench with a soil fungicide such as
Banrot will help to prevent root rot.
For Availability and More Information:
Contact David McDonald
Mount
(352)
385-2663 office / (352) 385-2660 fax