Costus vinosus is no longer extant at its type localityalong the Rio Guanche, and was thought to possibly be extinct in the wild. In 2015 it was found to be still extant in two localities in the same general region. The plant generally found in cultivation produces yellow flowers whereas the description indicates a pink labellum. This plant was not in flower at the time observed so the flower color is unknown. It was in a very wet habitat as shown in these photos.