Teaching Thursdays

Lobster Claw Heliconia

Lobster Claw Heliconia, tropical plant
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This is Heliconia rostrata, a.k.a. Lobster Claw, a tropical herbaceous perennial that bears thick red and yellow bracts that enclose the flower. The tubular blooms attract hummingbirds, and the entire cluster makes for beautiful cut flowers with a long vase life.

They like higher humidity, full to part sun, and rich, slightly acidic soil — keep consistently moist. Think tropical rainforest climate. They can do well as houseplants when placed in bright light, we just can’t promise they’ll bloom as often.

Prune spent flowers and leaves to encourage more growth, and here are some well-balanced fertilizing options to use from spring to fall: Plant-tone®, Tiger Bloom, or The Kerby’s Special.

Anybody can sell you plants, we make sure you succeed.

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