Hedychium densiflorum

Hedychium densiflorum is a shorter species with smaller flower spikes than the other hardy gingers but is a reliable late summer bloomer and likely the hardiest of the genus. Three foot tall stems are topped with 18 inch long inflorescences of tightly packed, deep orange, moderately fragrant flowers. Hedychium are related to the culinary ginger Zingiber officinale. Where hardy, they add subtropical foliage and exotic late summer and fall flowers to the garden. Grow in warm spots in full to part sun with rich soil and abundant moisture. Mulch with fallen leaves in winter. They are also easy to grow in pots and can be protected in a frost free area for winter or grown as a houseplant.