Heliconiaceae - Botanical Family

Heliconias are one of the most tropical looking plants. It is a must to have in a garden to create a tropical paradise. Heliconia psittacorum varieties form a group of smaller growing Heliconias which rarely exceed 5ft (1.5 m). They are less affected by cool temperatures than other Heliconias and also require less care. Can be grown in containers and kept indoors. Psittacorums have no particular blooming season and produce inflorescences all year long, usually blooming already during the first year after planting. Inflorescence makes a long lasting cut flower. The reddish pointed structures are called bracts. These tough, leathery structures protect the actual flower, which is yellow and quite delicate. The hummingbird that comes to this flower has a beak precisely shaped to fit into the flower. When the bird feeds, it receives a meal of nectar and in return, the plant's flower is pollinated. Grow best at temperatures above 70 F and should never be subjected to temperatures of less than 50 F for extended periods. Heavy feeders. The soil should be kept moist between waterings, never soaking wet. Propagation by rhizomes. See Thai Heliconia - varieties Gallery.

Heliconia rostrata is one of the most recognized and widely grown species, and one of the most beautiful. The inflorescence it produces is one of the most colorful you will ever encounter. It is pendent, the bracts are red with greenish yellow edges. The flowers last a long time and make an excellent cut flower. It is an easy grower in tropical areas but some room is required because the stalks can reach 7 feet in height. Bright shade is ideal with good moisture in the air and in the soil, but no soggy soils. Heliconias are also heavy feeders. Sheltered areas are better because strong winds can shred the leaves pretty bad. Can be grown in large pots.

See Thai Heliconia - varieties Gallery.

The family Heliconiaceae contains a single genus, Heliconia, with distribution in the Neotropical region and in Pacific islands from the island of Sulawesi (Indonesia) east to Samoa. The genus contains between 200 and 250 species (about 180 so-far described). Additionally, there are at least that many forms or cultivars. Heliconia sp. are large shrubs or small plants that can reach heights of 5 to 10 feet. They are renowned for their brightly colored flowers, in shades of pink, red, crimson, vinous, yellow and orange. Heliconia thrive in full sun or semi-shade and require regular water. They attract butterflies, hummingbirds and other pollinators.

Heliconia sp. can be grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11 and make an attractive addition to any garden. The secret to successful growth of these tropical beauties is well-draining soil and regular watering during the summer months. During winter months, it may be beneficial to keep the plant in a pot that can be brought indoors and placed in a bright, sunlit space. To promote the best possible blooming, fertilization is recommended throughout the growing season.

As with many tropical plants, Heliconia sp. require a little extra care to thrive. However, with the right tips, they can be successful and add a splash of color to any garden.

This Heliconia grows in clumps to 6 ft with a spread of 5 ft. It has 6 ft long banana-like leaves. Each inflorescence has red or orange bracts edged with green. Heliconia stricta cv. Dwarf Jamaican growing only 1 to 3ft high this small sized Heliconia is suitable for a wide range of designs. Dwarf Jamaican grows well in pots and is known to tolerate variable temperatures more than other Heliconias. Blooms all year and can be planted in full sun to semi-shade. Propagation: Clump division, or rhizome. See Thai Heliconia - varieties Gallery.

A truly spectacular hanging heliconia, H.vellerigera is a solid orange-red color with brilliant white hairs. It is a medium sized heliconia, reaching 6-7 feet tall. The leaves are light purple on the underside. Blooms throughout the year. See Thai Heliconia - varieties Gallery.