Hedychium corelii

Description

Hedychium corelii is a captivating ginger lily, presumed to be a hybrid of H. coronarium and H. ellipticum, elegantly combining distinctive features from both parent plants. This remarkable perennial inherits the exotic, heady fragrance from H. coronarium whilst displaying the characteristic upright, brush-like arrangement of individual flowers from H. ellipticum. Growing to approximately 1.5 metres tall, it showcases stems subtly marked with red that support bold, exotic-looking foliage.

In UK gardens, this ginger lily produces fairly large white flowers adorned with a subtle, pale yellow spot and striking exserted orange stamens. Flowering occurs during August to September when planted in a warm, sunny position outdoors, or as early as July when grown in a conservatory environment. Unlike many tropical gingers, H. corelii demonstrates good hardiness in most British areas, particularly when protected with a generous winter mulch around the rhizomes.

This magnificent plant thrives in rich, moist but well-drained soil and appreciates consistent watering during the growing season. Its intoxicating fragrance and dramatic appearance make it an outstanding addition to tropical borders, sheltered garden corners or conservatory displays.