You're right on both counts. Stromanthe is also known as tri-color ginger. Google "stromanthe" and you'll find many sites with culture info.

Thanks juneroses. I did google which is where I saw Stromanthe, but I guess I didn't dig deep enough. I'll try again.

Sandy, I'm in the same zone you are and I've tried it several times, and it hasn't been perennial for me. It may be that I have not placed it well or offered what it really wants, but I love them and wish I could really get it going here!

ggg, I don't know if it will survive here either, but I am hoping. I've heard of it surviving in zone 8 so maybe I'll get lucky.