Kahili ginger lily

Kahili ginger lily

Hedychium gardnerianum (Zingiberaceae)

Common Name:

Kahili ginger lily

Scientific Name:

Hedychium gardnerianum (Zingiberaceae)


Alternative common names:

Kahiligemmerlelies (Afrikaans)

Description:

A vigorous plant up to 2m high. Broad, bright green or greyish-green leaves which sheath the stems. Showy, fragrant flowers in spikes up to 35cm long from January to March. Flowers are yellow with red protruding stamens.

Additional Information


Where does this species come from?

Asia (Himalayas)

What is its invasive status in South Africa?

Existing legislation: CARA 2002 - Category 1 NEMBA - Category 1b

Where in South Africa is it a problem?

KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces

How does it spread?

Spreads by seeds and rhizomes

Why is it a problem?

Competes with and replaces indigenous species and obstructs access to plantations

What does it look like?

General description: Vigorous herb rising from rhizomes and growing up to 2m high with broad, bright green or greyish-green leaves which sheath the stems.
Leaves: Broad, bright green or greyish-green leaves.
Flowers: Flowers are yellow with red protruding stamens, appearing from January to March.
Fruit/seeds: Capsules.

Does the plant have any uses?

Planted as a garden ornament

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