Ginger - Stromanthe sanguinea

Plant name: Stromanthe sanguinea

Scientific name: Stromanthe sanguinea

Plant description:
Stromanthe sanguinea is a tropical foliage plant grown for its striking leaf coloration and upright, clumping habit. Although sometimes grouped with ornamental gingers due to its lush appearance, it belongs to the Marantaceae family. This evergreen perennial forms dense clumps of broad leaves on slender stems, creating a layered, architectural look suitable for interior spaces and shaded outdoor plantings in warm climates.

Flower description:
Flowering is uncommon in indoor cultivation. When grown in optimal outdoor conditions, it may produce small, white to pale pink flowers nestled among colorful bracts. The plant is primarily valued for its ornamental foliage rather than its blooms.

Leaf description:
Leaves are elongated and paddle-shaped with a smooth surface. The upper side is typically medium to deep green, while the underside displays rich burgundy to deep red tones. Some cultivated forms exhibit cream, pink, or variegated striping. The contrast between the upper and lower leaf surfaces adds depth and visual movement as the leaves shift with light.

Deciduous or evergreen:
Evergreen perennial in suitable climates and when grown indoors.

USDA grow zones:
USDA Zones 10–11 outdoors; widely grown as a houseplant in cooler regions.

Mature height and width:
Typically 2–3 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide, forming a full, upright clump.

Landscape uses:
Ideal for indoor containers, shaded patios, tropical borders, and foliage-focused plantings. Its upright growth habit makes it effective as a floor plant or accent in residential and commercial interiors.

Native range:
Native to Brazil and tropical regions of South America.

Sun exposure:
Performs best in bright, indirect light. Direct sun can scorch foliage and fade color, while insufficient light may reduce variegation and slow growth. Filtered light supports strong leaf contrast and compact structure.

Water requirements:
Requires evenly moist, well-drained soil. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between watering, but avoid extended dryness. Consistent humidity helps prevent leaf edge browning.

Pests and problems:
May be susceptible to spider mites in dry indoor air. Brown leaf tips can result from low humidity, inconsistent watering, or mineral buildup from hard water. Good airflow and steady moisture reduce stress-related issues.

Heat and sun tolerance: Cold tolerance:
Performs well in warm, stable indoor environments. Sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F, which can cause leaf damage and slowed growth.

Growing tips:
Plant in a well-draining potting mix enriched with organic matter. Maintain moderate to high humidity to preserve leaf color and prevent browning. Rotate containers periodically to ensure even growth and balanced light exposure. Wipe leaves occasionally to remove dust and maintain their vibrant appearance. Stable conditions and consistent care encourage dense, healthy foliage.

---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.