Growth form in the wild, Makawao Forest Reserve, Maui
Identification:
Kahili ginger is already a widespread pest on the island of Maui, but can be prevented from invading Molokai. This showy ginger plant grows in wet habitats from thick rhizomes to a height of 0.9-2.1 m (3-7 ft). The plant has lance-shaped leaves 20-45 cm (8-12 in) long and 10-15 cm (4-6 in) wide arranged in 2 rows along the length of the stem. One or more stalk, 16-30 cm (6-12 in) long, of flowerheads with strongly fragrant yellow flowers with elongated red stamens, are produced midsummer through fall. Seeds are bright red and orange within.
White ginger (Hedychium coronarium)
Yellow ginger (Hedychium flavescens):
White and yellow ginger are common garden plants that are also found growing in the wild in Maui County. The flowers of white and yellow ginger are white and the flowerheads are much smaller than in kahili ginger.
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