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Hedychium coronarium is the best known of the Butterfly Gingers. It is grown around the world for its large white butterfly shaped flowers that have a strong sweet scent reminiscent of Gardenia flowers. It is native to the Himalayan mountain range but has naturalized in several areas around the world where it was first introduced as an ornamental. In the US it has no natural (effective) pollinators but is occasionally pollinated by large Hawk moths. Though seed can be formed it primarily spreads via rhizomes. If it is in a decent growing area this spreading can be rather fast as will some related hybrids. A location with room to grow is best. Butterfly gingers that spread well will need to be thinned out to look there best as in old clumps rhizomes will grow on top of old rhizomes and have less support to stay upright. Too much shade can also cause stems to lean over too much. The ideal spot will receive a fair amount of filtered sun. A few hours of full sun through the day is well tolerated but full sun all day is not recommended unless adequate watering is provided and consistent.
The large size of the blooms, multiple flowers per bract, fragrance, and easy of growth (and availability) have made this one of the primary parents in the majority of hybrid Butterfly Gingers. Hedychium coccineum, Hedychium gardnerianum (Kahili), and Hedychium coronarium genes make up the majority of hybrids. It has only been in the last few years that several other species have entered into the mix.
In addition to being a landscape ornamental, the flowers of Hedychium coronarium ‘White Butterfly’ are a source of fragrance for many perfumes. They are also commonly used in Hawaii to make ‘Leis’ (a traditional necklace made of flowers or flower buds.
We also offer Hedychium chyrsoleucum which is often listed as a variety or subspecies of Hedychium coronarium. Offer varieties and subspecies have been listed and the taxonomy of these is still being worked out. This well known standard form of the White Butterfly Ginger grows to 5-6 feet in medium sun. Hardy in Zone 8 and above, some have had success growing in Zone 7 as well.