Crepe Ginger

This genus includes over 90 species of clump forming, rhizomatous perennials, found on forest floors in tropical regions of the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Australia. They have cane-like stems, spirally arranged leaves, and showy, tubular, three-petaled flowers. Costus speciosus is grown as an ornamental for its handsome foliage and large, colorful flowers, either outdoors in the tropics, or in containers for an exotic effect in summer. It has long been used in various parts of tropical Asia for medicinal purpose, and as an occasional or famine food. The rhizomes have a cucumber-like, gingery flavor and have been used to adulterate true ginger (from Zingiber officinale See ginger). In Malaysia it is regarded as a magickal plant, used in folk medicine to remove evil spirits, and in ceremonies. Research has shown that the rhizomes contain steriodal saponins, including diosgenin and ß-sitosterol, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties..

Tall rhizomatous perennial with erect, cane-like stems and oblanceolate, pointed leaves, 15-30cm (6-12in) long. White flowers with a yellow-centered lip, 4-8cm (1½-3in) across, and bright red bracts, are borne in dense terminal spikes at any time of the year, followed by red capsules containing numerous shiny black seeds.

Common Name:	Crepe Ginger
Botanical Name:	Costus speciosus
Genus:	Costus
Family:	Zingiberaceae
Native Location:	SE Asia
Cultivation:	Moist, well-drained, rich, neutral to acid soil in shade and high humidity.
Propagation:	Sow seed as soon as ripe at 20°C (68°F)
Harvest:	Leaves, young stems and rhizomes are collected as required and used fresh, often in the form of juice. Rhizomes may also be cooked or dried.
Height:	2-3m (6-10ft)
Width:	1m (3ft)
Hardiness:	Min. 13°C (55°F)
Parts Used:	Leaves, young stems, rhizomes.
Properties:	A bitter, astringent, stimulant herb that clear toxins, improves digestion, and reputedly has aphrodisiac effects. Fresh juice of rhizomes is purgative.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for eye and ear infections, diarrhea (sap from leaves, young stems), colds, mucus, coughs, dyspepsia, intestinal worms, and skin diseases (rhizomes). Formerly used in Malaysia for smallpox.
Bibliography:	The Encylopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001. Dorling Kindersley Limited. pp 181-182