Cautleya spicata, commonly known as Spiked Shade Ginger, is an evergreen perennial herb native to the understory of montane forests and shaded areas in the Himalayas and South Central China. It typically grows to a height of 2-4 feet and a width of 1-2 feet. The plant features lance-shaped leaves and produces striking flower spikes with bracts that range from yellow to red, blooming in the summer. The flowers are somewhat showy, attracting attention with their unique coloration.

Spiked Shade Ginger is appreciated for its exotic appearance and the tropical ambiance it brings to a garden. It is often used in shaded borders, woodland gardens, and as an understory plant in subtropical and temperate landscapes. It requires consistently moist soil, rich in organic matter, and thrives in part shade to full shade conditions. While it is generally easy to maintain, it can be sensitive to harsh sunlight and drying winds. In cooler climates, it may need winter protection or to be grown in containers that can be moved indoors.CC BY-SA 4.0