Have you ever wondered what the national flower of Nigeria is? If so, you’re in for a real treat! That vibrant, eye-catching bloom is called Costus spectabilis, although it goes by a few other common names too.

In this quick read, you’ll learn all about Costus spectabilis from what it looks like to its significance as the national flower of Nigeria. We’ll also cover some fun facts about when it became the country’s national flower and how it grows in the wild. Whether you’re a lover of botany, interested in Nigeria’s national symbols, or just think tropical flowers are gorgeous, you’ll enjoy this bite-sized primer on Costus spectabilis. Let’s dive in!

What is the National Flower of Nigeria?

The National Flower of Nigeria is Costus spectabilis, commonly known as the yellow trumpet, is an African, gregarious species of herb; low and perennial. It symbolizes the beauty of the nation, its uniqueness, and prosperity. This herbaceous plant is native to tropical West Africa, including Nigeria. Costus spectabilis flowers are showy, yellow and open singly. Nigeria’s floral emblem is Costus spectabilis, and its flowers are depicted on its coat of arms (erroneously in red rather than yellow).

It is one of 109 species of the Costaceae family, which is closely related to the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. All are tropical, occurring in Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas. Their underground storage organs are rhizomes, and they prefer shade, though some species may thrive in direct sunshine. They prefer damp soil and a humid environment. The rhizomes, which are covered in brown papery scales with hairy lower halves, lengthen and spread below ground level, forming new offshoots. In pot culture, rhizomes will develop through drainage holes or along the pot’s internal contours.

Species Habit and Description

It develops four enormous (12 × 12 cm) fleshy leaves that lie flat on the ground and create a basal rosette. They are glabrous above and hairy below, particularly at the midrib. The leaf border is complete, with a purple-pink edge. The inflorescence is terminal and grows from the center of the rosette. The flowers are spectacular, yellow, and open singly before quickly dying and being replaced by another. During the winter, the species goes dormant, shrinking down to a centipede-like rhizome with no roots. In the spring, it develops paddle-shaped leaves that, when fully developed, resemble water-lily pads. The abaxial leaf surface has a spongy, whitish feel. Flowers are bright yellow with a crisped edge, measuring about 9 cm wide, with a large staminodial labellum, and resembling those of a pumpkin. The texture of the flower is soft and thin. It is found in wooded grassland and deciduous woodland, occasionally near termite mounds or around rocks.

Uses of Costus spectabilis

Costus spectabilis is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and flowers. Its leaves are also used for medicinal purposes and the plant has economic importance as a source of paper pulp. The flowers are an important source of nectar for butterflies, bees and sunbirds.

The flowers have a distinctive funnel shape and can last up to a week before falling off. The plant itself has large, oblong leaves that emerge from thick stems. It can grow up to 6 feet tall in tropical climates. The Costus spectabilis was selected as the national flower not only for its natural beauty but also for its cultural significance. In some Nigerian ethnic groups, the leaves and roots of the plant are used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes. The Yoruba people, in particular, use the leaves to treat stomach ailments and fevers. The Igbos consider the plant sacred and use its parts in some traditional rituals.

Overall, Costus spectabilis is a very decorative plant that adds beauty to any garden. With its bold foliage and brilliant flowers, it makes a great ornamental plant for tropical and subtropical climates. Provided the right conditions, C. spectabilis can make a wonderful addition to any garden.

Costus spectabilis Scientific classification

Costus spectabilis, commonly known as spiral ginger, is a species of herbaceous perennial plant in the costus family, Costaceae. It is native to tropical West Africa. This striking plant is the national flower of Nigeria.

Costus spectabilis belongs to the plant kingdom, division of flowering plants, order Zingiberales, family Costaceae, and genus Costus.

The classification of Costus spectabilis is:

Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Zingiberales
Family: Costaceae
Genus: Costus Species: Costus spectabilis

Whenever you see the Costus spectabilis, think of the rich culture, natural beauty and spirit of Nigeria.

Interesting Facts About the Costus Spectabilis Plant

The Costus Spectabilis is Nigeria’s national flower.

Adopted in 1960 upon Nigeria’s independence, the Costus spectabilis, also known as the yellow trumpet, was chosen as the national flower because of its yellow color, which symbolizes the beauty of the nation, its uniqueness, and prosperity.

It grows wild in the tropical rainforests of Nigeria.

The Costus spectabilis thrives in the hot, humid climate of the tropical rainforests, especially in the south and central parts of the country. It can be found growing wild along roadsides and forest edges.

The plant has beautiful yellow flowers.

The Costus spectabilis produces vibrant yellow flowers. The flowers have a crinkled, crepe-like texture and a spiral shape, which gives the plant one of its common names Yellow Trumpet.

The plant has medicinal properties.

In traditional Nigerian medicine, the Costus spectabilis has been used to treat various ailments like skin diseases, worms, infertility and gastrointestinal issues. The roots and rhizomes contain compounds that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The plant is popular in landscaping.

Due to its beautiful and dramatic flowers, the Costus spectabilis is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and public landscapes across Nigeria and other tropical regions. It adds an exotic tropical flair to any outdoor space.

The plant is low-maintenance.

The Costus spectabilis is a hardy, low-maintenance plant. It thrives with minimal care and is resistant to most common pests and diseases. It does not require regular pruning and fertilizing to produce its flowers.

The yellow dye from the flowers can be used as a fabric dye.

The golden yellow flowers of the Costus spectabilis contain pigments that can be used as a natural dye for fabrics like cotton and silk. The dye produces a bright yellow color that is colorfast. This shows the plant’s usefulness beyond ornamental and medicinal purposes.

Conclusion

So there you have it, the fascinating story behind Nigeria’s national flower, Costus spectabilis. From its striking appearance to its importance in Nigerian culture, this unique plant has become a symbol of national pride. Though it may not be as well known globally as some other national flowers, the Costus spectabilis certainly deserves its place as Nigeria’s floral emblem. As you’ve learned, it has a long history intertwined with the nation itself. Whether you’re a visitor to Nigeria or an armchair traveler learning more about its culture, keep an eye out for the brilliant yellow blooms of the Costus spectabilis. They’re a distinctive part of Nigeria’s natural heritage.