SafePlants

Heliconia: The Lobster-Claw of the Tropics

Heliconias, belonging to the genus Heliconia, are a vibrant and exotic group of flowering plants that bring a touch of the tropics to gardens and floral arrangements. Derived from the Greek word "helikonios," these plants are sure to captivate with their unique forms and brilliant colors.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Heliconia
• Common Names: Lobster-claw, wild plantain, false bird-of-paradise, Christmas heliconia
• Family: Heliconiaceae
• Order: Zingiberales

Distribution and Habitat

Heliconias are primarily native to the tropical regions of the Americas, particularly Central and South America (including the Amazon rainforest), and some islands of the South Pacific. Heliconia angusta, for example, is native to southeastern Brazil.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Heliconias are large, erect herbs, ranging in height from 75 to 700 cm (approximately 2.5 to 23 feet).
• They are perennial plants with a basal aggregation of large leaves.
• The leaves are typically paddle-shaped, resembling those of banana plants.
• They are grown for their striking, colorful flowering bracts, which emerge from clumps of banana-like leaves.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that heliconias are related to bananas.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions that heliconias are related to bananas.

Ecological Role

Heliconias play a vital role in their native ecosystems. They serve as an important food source for rainforest hummingbirds. They can be found in the rainforest understory or densely populated at the forest periphery, with some species quickly colonizing disturbed areas.

Cultivation

Heliconias are increasingly popular in cultivation due to their spectacular blooms and relative ease of growth. They thrive in tropical climates and are becoming a household favorite. They can be grown as cut flowers and as pot plants.

Related Plants

Heliconias are closely related to bananas, cannas, and gingers, all belonging to the order Zingiberales.

Examples of Heliconia Species and Cultivars

• Heliconia acuminata 'Kaieteur Falls'
• Heliconia angusta 'Orange Christmas'
• Heliconia angusta 'Holiday Christmas'
• Heliconia caribaea x bihai 'Hot Rio Nights'
• Heliconia marginata x bihai 'Rauliniana'
• Heliconia aemygdiana ssp. transandiana

Further Information

For more information about heliconias, consider exploring the resources offered by the Heliconia Society International (HSI). Jurong Bird Park is designated as Asia’s first Heliconia Repository.