Dichorisandra penduliflora aka Weeping Blue Ginger

Dichorisandra penduliflora is a perennial known as weeping blue ginger. It belongs to Commelinaceae, the spiderwort family, rather than ginger. Its native range lies in northeastern Brazil. Kew places it in a seasonally dry tropical climate. Gardeners grow it in pots and as a houseplant. In warm regions, it also suits outdoor beds and pollinator gardens.

Plants reach 2–4 feet (0.61–1.22 metres) tall. Their spread reaches 1–2 feet (0.30–0.61 metres). Green stems grow upright, branch, and then arch or droop. This mix gives the plant its weeping form. The stems have no scent. Simple leaves have smooth edges and a narrow, elliptic to lanceolate shape. Their upper surfaces look dark green and glossy. Fine hairs cover the leaf undersides. Young leaves may show purple beneath. Both the leaves and flowers provide visual interest.

The blue flowers form clusters on hanging stems. These clusters take the form of panicles or racemes. Each flower has three petals and measures 0.04–0.06 feet (0.013–0.019 metres) across. Four stamens stand upright, while two spread outward. The genus name refers to this split arrangement. The species name refers to the hanging flowers. Bloom can continue through all seasons. On sunny days, flowers close during the afternoon. Cloudy weather allows them to stay open throughout the day. Bees visit the blooms.

Grow this plant in moist loam that drains well. It accepts partial shade and light filtered through a tree canopy. It also grows in sun with shade during the afternoon. It tolerates humidity but does not tolerate frost. Both horticultural sources list USDA hardiness zones 9–11. Pots allow gardeners to use it as a specimen indoors. Its long bloom season also suits a conservatory display. In warm gardens, its flowers offer value for visiting bees. Gardeners can raise new plants from stem cuttings or division.

NC State describes its care needs as low. Even so, several pests may attack it. Watch for spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, whiteflies, scale, and thrips. Leaf spot and powdery mildew can affect the foliage. Root rot can also occur. The plant resists verticillium wilt. The supplied sources do not establish edible uses or toxicity.