That was a surprise! Usually "red gingers" are Alpinias, but what you have (I believe) is Stromanthe sanguinea var. Tricolor. If so, it is true, it in the family of gingers. It needs shade. Will work as a houseplant, but it likes humidity. Probably hardy in your zone.

Thank goodness it likes humidity...it sure is humid here this summer. I will see what I can find out under the name you gave me. Thanks, Susie

Just looked it up under that name and I think you are correct. That looks like my plant. Thanks again

It's definitely Stromanthe Tricolor. I've been growing this plant for 5 years in the ground in zone 9. It's mostly in shade and seems to like it as it blooms every spring. The leaves will burn below freezing but it has been root hardy for me since I acquired it.

Steve

I bought a Stromanthes I was happy to find at Wal-mart after I saw yours. I made a note from somewhere on the web that it's supposed to grow to 12 - 18" then I saw one today at Target that was over 3 feet tall and wide! Gorgeous but certainly a lot bigger than I expected!

Suzanne

secapps please go to this site to find out what kind of ginger you have. Sent a photo to the guy in the picture on that site. He can tell you the correct answer. http://www.gingersrus.com/