Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Meet my newest plant, Heliconia Rostrata or Lobster Claw


I got this Heliconia last year from my father’s garden. The heliconia is a perennial plant related to the banana tree, and is a native of South America and the West Indies, According to a book I have, there are more than 200 named varieties.
Depending on the variety, heliconias grow in shade; partial shade or full sun, my dad recommends an area protected from the wind, the shuts tend to break easily.
Heliconias vary in size from a couple of feet too more than 10feet. The best way to propagate is by dividing the underground rhizomes and re-plant.

8 comments:

Meredith said...

You have such unique plants! The world is great, isn't it?

Jennifer AKA keewee said...

Most unusual and very pretty.

Prospero said...

Hi Rusty. My rostrata is just starting to form. I guess it likes the heat.

But is this a fabulous plant, or what! It's one of my favorites. It's just so spectacular. If I wasn't already in the tropics, I'd move there.

Tira said...

I love this flower-and all heliconias in general. My all time favourite is "Sexy Pink". Unfortunately my island (and particular location) is too dry for them. So unless I spend tons in water they won't survive.

Jeanette said...

Gday Rusty, very unusual flower , this heliconia is new to me..

Dirt Princess said...

very nice. I have always admired them.

Vix said...

Simply lovely. I have been dying to get one to add to my garden, but none of the local nurseries carry it so I'll have to find someone who has in their garden and beg them to share.

Green thumb said...

My Heliconia Rostrata is also one year old and it is rewarding me with beautiful flowers this season! A 'must have' for a tropical garden!!