Heliconia
Lobster-Claw, False Bird-of-Paradise
Perennials, Flowers
More than 100 species of tropical plants from Central and South America and the southwest Pacific populate this genus. They are grown for their large, showy, waxy flower clusters made up of brightly colored bracts; the small true flowers peep out from the bracts. Clusters may be erect or drooping, from a few inches to several feet in length; spectacular in flower arrangements. In growthhabit, plants resemble banana. Oblong to spoon-shaped evergreen leaves are large, and plants form sizable clumps that keep increasing with age.
Heliconias grow best with rich soil, heavy feeding, and plenty of water—all of which will keep clump expanding. Cut away stems that have flowered to make room for new growth. In areas with frosts, grow plants in tubs and shelter from winter cold. Potted plants can bloomanytime; those in the groundflower in spring and summer.
To 4–10 ft. tall, with leaves to 3 ft. long. Erect flower clusters to 2 1/2 ft. long. Yellow or orange to vermilion or scarlet bracts; white or pale yellow flowers.
Heliconia angusta
To 4–10 ft. tall, with leaves to 3 ft. long. Erect flower clusters to 2 1/2 ft. long. Yellow or orange...
Schefflera arboricola
Native to Taiwan. To20 ft. tall with equal or greaterspread, but easily kept smallerwith pruning. Dark...
Allamanda blanchetii
Shrubby grower to 6–10 ft. tall and wide, often with a few vining stems. Leaves are somewhat downy. Ro...
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