Heliconia Rostrata: A Tropical Treasure

Welcome to the world of Heliconia Rostrata, also known as the Hanging Lobster Claw or False Bird of Paradise! 🌺 This stunning tropical plant is sure to bring a burst of color and vibrancy to your garden.

History and Background

Heliconia Rostrata is native to the tropical regions of South America, including countries like Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It was introduced to Europe in the late 18th century and has since become a beloved ornamental plant in tropical gardens worldwide2. The plant’s unique, bird-like flowers and lush foliage make it a standout choice for garden enthusiasts.

Plant Characteristics

Heliconia Rostrata is a large evergreen perennial that can grow up to 4-6 feet tall and 3-6 feet wide. It boasts huge, leathery, banana-like dark green leaves and showy flower clusters that hang from the stems1. The inflorescences feature bright red bracts tipped with yellow and green, with yellowish-white flowers that produce an abundance of nectar, attracting hummingbirds and other pollinators.

Planting and Care Instructions

1. 1. Location: Choose a spot in your garden that receives full sun or partial shade. Heliconia Rostrata thrives in bright, indirect sunlight1.

1. 1. Soil Preparation: Plant your rhizomes in well-draining, humus-rich soil. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works great.

1. 1. Planting Depth: Place the rhizomes just below the soil surface, ensuring that any growth points are above the soil.

1. 1. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during the growing season (spring through fall).

1. 1. Fertilizing: Feed your Heliconia Rostrata monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows down4.

1. 1. Temperature and Humidity: Heliconia Rostrata prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 70-85°F (21-29°C). These plants thrive in humid conditions. If you live in a dry area, consider using a humidifier or misting the leaves regularly.

1. 1. Maintenance: Remove any dead or damaged leaves to keep your plant healthy and encourage new growth. Keep an eye out for pests like mites and mealybugs4. Treat any infestations promptly with an appropriate insecticide. Propagate by seed sown in heat in spring, or by division in spring1.

 

What Are Rhizomes?

Rhizomes are underground stems that store nutrients and produce new shoots and roots. They’re an essential part of Heliconia Rostrata’s growth, allowing the plant to spread and thrive. When you plant rhizomes, you’re essentially giving your plant a head start, as they already contain the energy and structure needed to grow strong and healthy. See our complete Rhizome Guide .

We hand harvest and ship all of our rhizomes directly to our customers. All images here are of our plants.