CAUTLEYA spicata. Himalayas. This odd ginger ally initially seemed unimpressive, but as the plants have grown and bloomed more heavily, it has become one of our major summer conversation pieces for visitors. It is rhizomatous like most gingers, quickly forming dense colonies, from which narrow leaved shoots resembling those of Hedychium but only 1-2' tall, appear in spring. These are topped in summer by dense clusters of ginger-like blossoms combining earthy red and bright yellow. The plants die down in winter and should be hardy outdoors, at least to 20^oF. Sun or shade near the coast, part shade inland, most soils, moderate to regular watering.