Roscoea Scillifolia

Roscoea scillifolia is a compact tuberous ginger from Yunnan, producing one to five narrow leaves and a succession of small orchid-like flowers in soft pink to violet. The blooms rise on short stalks above the foliage in early to midsummer and display the elaborate hood, side petals and broad lip typical of the genus. At around 15-35 cm it fits easily into a shaded rock garden or woodland edge. Hardy despite its exotic appearance, it thrives in cool humus, partial shade and reliable summer moisture before disappearing into winter dormancy.