Heliconia orthotricha (Heliconia)
Botanical name: Heliconia orthotricha
Common names: Heliconia, Lobster claw
Family: Heliconiaceae
Origin: Northern South America









A showstopping perennial ornamental from the banana family, Heliconia orthotricha is native to Northern South America. These stunning plants boast bright and vibrant flowers that become the center of attention in any garden. With their colorful, large inflorescences in red, pink, and yellow hues. They attract butterflies and hummingbirds to any landscape.
The Heliconia orthotricha is a large shrub that can reach heights of 5-10 ft tall and is a petite shrub at 2-5 ft. It does best in a full sun to semi-shade environment and requires regular watering and heavy feeding in rich soil. Though it generally thrives in USDA Zone 9-11, it can in fact be grown in colder regions in a pot, although extra care must be taken when temperatures drop.
This magnificent plant produces huge red, crimson or vinous flowers, as well as stunning pink and yellow or orange blooms. The inflorescence can last up to two months, and their showy appearance makes the Heliconia orthotricha an ideal plant for anyone seeking a tropical look in their outdoor space. The plant is known for its firework-like beauty that is sure to add to any garden's wow factor.
Overall, the Heliconia orthotricha is a fantastic perennial ornamental to bring a tropical flair to any outdoor setting. Whether planted in the ground or grown in a pot, its stunning flowers will bring beauty, joy, and life to the space.
Similar plants: Heliconia orthotricha (Heliconia)
- Heliconia angusta (Christmas Heliconia)
- Heliconia angusta 'Christmas Holiday' (Christmas Holiday Heliconia)
- Heliconia aurantiaca (Golden Dwarf Heliconia)
- Heliconia bihai (Macaw Flower)
- Heliconia caribaea (Lobster Claw)
- Heliconia collinsiana (Hanging Heliconia)
- Heliconia hirsuta (Heliconia Costa Flores)
- Heliconia latispatha (Expanded Lobsterclaw)
- Heliconia psittacorum (Parrot's heliconia)
- Heliconia rostrata (Lobster Claw)