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TROPICAL PLANT CATALOG

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Heliconia psittacorum, Bihai psittacorum, Parrot's heliconia, Heliconia, Parakeet Flower

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Heliconia psittacorum x spathocircinata Orange Torch

Heliconia psittacorum, Bihai psittacorum
Family: Heliconiaceae
Parrot's heliconia, Heliconia, Parakeet Flower
Small shrub 2-5 ft

Subtropical, cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time

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.

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