Heliconia sp (Lobster claw, Heliconia)

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Plant description

Heliconias are tropical, perennial plants that grow from a rhizome. They are related to gingers, bananas and canna lillies, and are grown for their highly decorative flowers, that make excellent cut flowers. The flower is actually small, but it is enclosed by colourful large bracts, which can have combinations of colours. Some have insignificant flowers, but instead have spectacular foliage. There are a hundred to two hundred species, and a large number of hybrids and selected cultivars. Some varieties are clumping, and some are spreading varieties, some of which can become invasive if not kept under control. They can be grown in large containers. 

Heliconias do not tolerate cold weather or frosts. They like a free draining soil high in organic matter, regular watering and fertilising. Heavy mulching helps to stop the soil from drying out, as well as discouraging weed growth. Most varieties like full sun, but some require partial shade. There are some varieties which can tolerate more cold, and can be grown in sub-tropical and warm temperate areas, such as Heleconia rostrata.

Heliconias are quick growing in rich soils in tropical condtions.

Propagation is from division of the rhizomes, or from seed. Seed can take up to a year to germinate, and the plant may not breed true to the parent, so division is the most common propagation method. The rhizome is planted just under the soil surface, and should be kept evenly moist but not wet till it shoots.

Additional plant information

Flowers

Flower colour: red, orange, yellow, pink, green, cream
Flowering season: spring summer autumn

Plant size

Maximum height: 4 metres
Minimum height: 0.5 metres

Maximum width: not specified
Minimum width: not specified

Sunlight, frost & salt tolerance

This plant will tolerate full or partial sunlight.
Light frost tolerance.
Plant is not salt tolerant.

Fauna attracting?

Yes. Attracts: Birds, insects.

Climate

This plant species will grow in the following climates: subtropical, tropical.

Soil types & conditions

Loam: moist, well-drained.

Clay: well-drained.

Sand: moist.

Soil pH: 5.8-6.5

Pests

Grasshoppers, mealy bug, scale

Miscellaneous information

Planting season: not specified.

Types of fertiliser: Good general purpose fertiliser.

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