With its distinctive, colorful foliage, the multihued tricolor ginger plant doesn't need flowers to call attention to itself. Native to Brazilian rainforests, the variegated tricolor ginger (Stromanthe sanguinea) is also called triostar for its trio of leaf colors. Tricolor ginger can be grown indoors and out in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 8b through 10.
The broad lance-shaped leaves of the tricolor ginger plant grow in shades of pink, cream and green. There's a range of variegation on the top sides of the leaves. Pink or off-white stipples large portions of some leaves, while others may be almost completely green. Maroon and pink variegation color the undersides of the leaves.
The tricolor ginger produces reddish-pink flowers in the spring. The plant grows in clumps that reach 2 to 3 feet high and 1 to 2 feet wide. The leaves on this member of the prayer plant (maranta) family move with the sun so the tips can capture sunlight while the flat part of the leaf stays shielded.
Plant the tricolor ginger inside or out in moist soil. The plant tolerates up to 75 percent shade, so it grows well in gardens with filtered light and in areas that receive sun only part of the day. The soil for your tricolor ginger plant should have a pH level of 5.1 to 7.5.
The tricolor ginger thrives in humidity, so mist the leaves occasionally to give it moisture. The plant needs an average amount of water and should not be overwatered. Use a fertilizer formulated for houseplants at half strength every two weeks.