Named in honour of William Roscoe founder of Liverpool Botanic Gardens these members of the Zingiberaceae family contain about 8 species in their genus. They are native to China and the Himalaya. They produce ‘orchid like’ blooms over Summer which have hooded upper petals, a wide lower lip offset by 2 narrow petals on stems varying from 15cm to 60cm depending on the species. Blooms range in colour from white, yellow, pink, purple and even red. They prefer an easterly aspect in humus rich soil sheltered from hot afternoon sun and winds. They like to be kept moist in well-drained soil enriched with an organic fertiliser through their Summer/Autumn growing period. They appreciate a well-rotted compost over Winter during dormancy. A fascinating member of the ginger family.
Available May to August