Came across bunches of these on my little vacation in Costa Rica. Can someone tell me if this is a costus? Very curvy plants and quite tall. This one was at least 2 feet over my head. I have a little wider shot if needed. Thanks.
Deb
Is this costus?
Hi Deb,
Yes, ma'am that is a Costus. It is Costus pulverulentus. It is a really kewl Costus. I love Costus, I have one of those. I have to bring it in when winter comes. I don't have enough to sacrifice one to a cold hardy test, yet.
Liz
Liz-I left the pulverulentus in the ground over the winter and it didn't come back. Going to try again this winter-but then I left a speciosus in the ground and that also didn't come back and that should have here. Maybe costus don't like my yard!
Liz: Thanks for the reply. They were absolutely everywhere along the trail at Manuel Antonio Natl Park. If only I could have a trail like that in my garden! :D
Deb
Oh, my gosh! I can't even imagine a trail like that one, you are so very lucky to have seen it for yourself. I truly LOVE Costus. Costus barbatus is my favorite ginger (out of over 200 we have). I mean you can pet the undersides of the leaves (nice and soft, like a bunny's ears), the inflorescence is a beautiful bright red, the blooms are a bright yellow. the hummers love them. I find them to be a very majestic plant, as well as so tropical looking. I also eat the blooms, yummy :)
Liz
