Family: Zingiberaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Hedychium longicornutum, commonly called perched gingerwort or hornbill’s ginger, is native to parts of Southeast Asia. This perennial plant produces tall, upright stems with clusters of fragrant, tubular flowers that range in colors from white to pale yellow, making it an attractive ornamental for gardens and landscaping. Its lush foliage and striking blooms are often valued for decorative purposes and for adding tropical appeal to garden spaces.

Risks & Threats:
Although Hedychium longicornutum is not currently known to be naturalized in Hawaii, it possesses traits that raise concern. Plants in this genus can spread aggressively under favorable conditions, potentially crowding out native vegetation and altering natural habitats. Further evaluation is needed to determine whether it could become invasive and negatively impact Hawaii’s delicate island ecosystems. Caution is recommended when considering planting this species, and low-risk or native alternatives are generally safer choices for landscaping.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Several other Hedychium species have become invasive
  
• Shade-tolerant
  
• Epiphytic habit (may compete with native epiphytes)
  
• Reached maturity in 12 months under optimal conditions
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds and people
  
• Spreads vegetatively by rhizomes and rhizome fragments

Low Risk Traits:

• No reports of naturalization or invasiveness to date
  
• Specialized growing requirements
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Ornamental and medicinal uses
  
• Requires specialized pollinators
  
• Seeds lose viability quickly