White Butterfly Ginger - Hedychium thrysiforme

Common Name :	White Butterfly Ginger.
Binomial Name :	Hedychium thyrsiforme
Family :	Zingiberaceae
Bangla Name :	?
Photo Taken :	Bangladesh

Botanical Identity

Hedychium thyrsiforme, commonly known as Garland Lily or Thyrsiform Ginger Lily, is a member of the Zingiberaceae (ginger) family. It is native to the Eastern Himalayan region, particularly found in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan, thriving in forest edges, hillsides, and moist, shady habitats. The genus Hedychium is known for its aromatic flowers and ornamental appeal, and this particular species is admired for its elegant blooms arranged in dense floral clusters, or "thyrses" — which give it its name.

Plant Description

Hedychium thyrsiforme is a tall, rhizomatous perennial herb, reaching heights of 1.5 to 2.5 meters. It has long, lance-shaped leaves that sheathe the upright, cane-like stems. The plant emerges from thick underground rhizomes and thrives in moist, semi-shaded locations with good drainage. It grows vigorously in warm climates and is often seen on forest margins or alongside streams in hilly regions. Like other ginger lilies, it adds vertical interest and tropical flair to gardens and natural landscapes.

Flowers and Fruit Characteristics

This plant produces creamy-white to pale yellow, fragrant flowers, densely packed in tall, cylindrical inflorescences. Each flower has a long, slender floral tube with spreading petals and conspicuous orange stamens, adding contrast and beauty. Blooming typically occurs from late summer to autumn, and the pleasant scent of the flowers attracts various pollinators, including bees and butterflies. After flowering, it produces capsular fruits that contain several seeds, often used for propagation.

Uses and Cultural Importance

While not as commonly used medicinally as some other gingers, Hedychium thyrsiforme is valued for its ornamental and aromatic qualities. In local traditions, the fragrant flowers are used to make garlands and offerings, particularly in parts of northeastern India and Nepal.





Photos of this White Butterfly Ginger (Hedychium thrysiforme) were taken from the following location during a trekking:
1) September 2010: Bandarban, Bangladesh.


Written by Lonely Traveler,
For blog icflora.blogspot.com