Heliconia rostrataLobster Claw PlantThe pendant red and yellow bracts of Heliconia rostrata make it one of the most rewarding Heliconia plants you can grow. It is commonly called the lobster claw plant because of the shape of its bracts which can appear at any time during the growing season.
The foliage of H. rostrata is much like that of a
banana
or a bird of paradise. In fact, another name for it is False Bird of Paradise. It grows from underground tubers, producing canes as tall as 8 feet. The tubers multiply below ground and will form a clump in time. The plant blooms on year old canes so avoid removing canes that have not yet flowered.
Growing The Lobster Claw PlantPlant tubers or potted plants away from high winds in a semi-shady spot. They need some sun but full, all-day sun may be too much.Give the plants a slow release fertilizer in the spring. Then use a liquid fertilizer monthly throughout spring and summer. If you want to use a granular for the monthly feedings, palm fertilizer will meet Heliconia's nutritional needs. Keep plants evenly moist--almost wet. Grow them much the way you would canna lilies. After they bloom, canes should be cut to the ground. Heliconia clumps need to be dug up and divided every few years or they will loose vigor. Replenish the soil with compost and fertilizer before replanting the divisions. Heliconia rostrata is native to Central and South America, the Caribbean and the South Pacific. This tender perennial can only be grown in the ground in zone 9b or warmer. In colder zones grow them in pots and protect them during the winter.
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The hanging inflorescences may be up to 3 feet long. Flowers are mostly red but yellow at the tips. Long lasting when cut, they are excellent additions to floral arrangements. The dramatic leaves are also useful in the vase.