Ginger - Stromanthe Tricolor

Plant name: Stromanthe ‘Triostar’ (Tricolor Ginger)

Scientific name: Stromanthe sanguinea ‘Triostar’

Plant description:
Stromanthe sanguinea ‘Triostar,’ commonly known as Stromanthe Tricolor, is a tropical foliage plant grown for its bold variegation and upright clumping habit. Although often referred to as ornamental ginger due to its lush appearance, it belongs to the Marantaceae family. This evergreen perennial forms dense clusters of broad leaves on slender stems, creating a layered, architectural presence suited for interior spaces and shaded outdoor plantings in warm climates.

Flower description:
Flowering is uncommon in indoor cultivation. When produced in ideal outdoor conditions, blooms are small and pale, emerging among bracts near the stem tips. The plant is valued primarily for its dramatic foliage rather than its flowers.

Leaf description:
Leaves are elongated and paddle-shaped with a smooth surface and striking coloration. The upper surface displays a blend of green, cream, and blush pink variegation, while the underside reveals deep burgundy tones. New growth often emerges with stronger pink coloration before maturing. The contrast between the upper and lower leaf surfaces creates depth and movement as the leaves respond to 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 reaches 2–3 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide, forming a full, upright clump.

Landscape uses:
Ideal for decorative containers, interior plant displays, shaded patios, and tropical-style borders. Its bold variegation makes it an effective focal point in foliage arrangements and modern interiors.

Native range:
The species Stromanthe sanguinea is native to Brazil and tropical regions of South America; ‘Triostar’ is a cultivated ornamental selection.

Sun exposure:
Performs best in bright, indirect light. Strong filtered light enhances variegation and maintains compact growth. Direct sun can scorch leaves and fade color, while low light may reduce pink tones and overall vibrancy.

Water requirements:
Requires evenly moist, well-drained soil. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between watering, but avoid prolonged dryness. Consistent humidity helps prevent leaf edge browning and maintains foliage quality.

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

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

Growing tips:
Plant in a well-draining, organic-rich potting mix. Maintain moderate to high humidity to preserve leaf color and prevent tip burn. Rotate containers regularly for balanced growth and even light exposure. Clean leaves occasionally to remove dust and highlight the variegated pattern. Stable conditions and consistent care support strong color contrast and dense 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.