Spiral Flag

Description:

Costus dubius, is known by the common name Spiral flag, which describes the twisted or spiral arrangement of the leaves on the stems of this species. Plants grow up to 3.5 m high with oval leaves that are arranged spirally along the stem. Costus plants reproduce vegetatively by the production of underground stems known as rhizomes, and can also grow from stems that fall over on the ground. The flower stalks develop from buds on the underground stems, and this species produces many inflorescences that form dense clusters at the base of the plant. All Costus species produce flowers in tightly arranged inflorescences with green or colorful bracts surrounding the flowers. In this species the bract is green and contains a single white flower with yellow spot at the base of the petal. The fruit of Costus dubius produces many small seeds and can establish and spread quickly.