Etlingera corneri is an erect perennial plant with distinct stems that bear leaves and other leafless stems bearing clusters of flowers. It grows up to 13.1 feet (4 m) tall. The overlapping outer cup bracts are silky porcelain red, shaped to create a rose-shaped flower.
Torch ginger plants prefer consistently moist soil but not persistently soggy conditions. They can tolerate being waterlogged for a short time, but eventually this will cause root rot. Plan to water whenever the top 1 to 2 inches of soil has dried out, especially during the warmest months of the year.
Torch ginger plants can grow in full sun to partial shade, meaning they need at least three hours of direct sunlight on most days. However, they will appreciate some protection from the harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the foliage.
When growing these plants in established beds, fertilize with a food that is high in potassium. This is the third number on the fertilizer ratio displayed on the packaging. Once the potassium is right in the soil, watering, an important part of learning how to grow torch ginger successfully, will be more beneficial.
While they can tolerate a variety of soil types, the plants thrive in organically rich soil with sharp drainage. They prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH. The soil also must be high in potassium, which assists the plants in water uptake. Doing a soil test before planting can let you know whether you need to amend your soil.
These plants thrive in warmth and humidity. They have no tolerance for frost and prefer temperatures to remain consistently above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. In dry climates, a layer of mulch around the torch ginger can help to retain soil moisture. However, the plants still might fail to grow well.