This rhizomatous perennial has upright bamboo-like stems that are coloured with brown and light tan sections. It has dark green narrow lanced-shaped leaves and produces yellow tube-shaped flowers in a cone-like flower head during summer.
 
Hardiness zones 10 to 12 

Costus stenophyllus is naturally found in Central America growinf in Costa Rica in the understorey of rainforests. It prefers a well drained organic rich moist acidic soil in a semi shaded humid wind protected position and is drought and frost tender.

The Bamboo Ginger is grown for is attractive striped stems and its bright flowers. It is planted in the understorey of a rainforest setting or used along borders in a tropical setting. It establishes in 3 to 5 years. It is also grown under glass as a specimen in cold climates. ID 2937

Costus (KOAST-us) stenophyllus (sten-o-FIL-us)

Costaceae (KOST-AY-see-ee)