Propagation
Division of the rhizome during spring is the normal method of propagation. Plant the shoot buds upwards at a depth of 40mm (1⅝ in) in a pot and place it in a warm semi-shaded position and apply slow release fertilise and keep moist. Plant out when established.

Sow fresh seeds in containers during spring.

Botanic information
Leaf: The glossy dark green broad lanceolate leaves have undulating margins and an acuminate apex. The petiole is short and the base is completely tubular, sheathing the stem. The upper surface has a prominent mid-rib and the leaves tend to arch with age.

Flower: The small tubulate flowers have a purplish-black lower lip that is dotted in white and a whitish upper hood. They are accompanied by large waxy chocolate-red bracts and are arranged in a dense terminal spike that appears just above the ground on a stout peduncle, during summer. The flowering period may vary in tropical regions.

Fruit: The small 3-valve indehiscent capsule is globular (berry-like) and contains numerous tiny seeds that have a short viability period and the plant is commonly reproduced vegetatively.