Heliconia rostrata (Hanging Lobster Claw)

Heliconias are closely related to the popular bird of paradise flower ( Strelitzia reginae ), but are significantly less well-known. In our opinion, they should be, because they are often beautiful, not only because of their flowers but also because of their attractive foliage!

The hanging lobster claw, Heliconia rostrata, is one of the larger species, reaching a height of about 2 to 3 meters. Unlike other heliconias, its flower spikes are not upright but drooping. In large specimens, the flower spikes can grow well over a meter long. The actual flowers are quite inconspicuous. It is the fleshy bracts, which protect the flowers from rain, that immediately catch the eye. They are a vibrant red, fading to bright yellow at the edges. The elongated, upright leaves of Heliconia rostrata are also attractive. They resemble banana leaves but are sturdier and firmer.

It grows from an underground rhizome and maintains a very compact, upright form. It is quite fast-growing and undemanding, as long as it is given enough space and light.



You’ll receive a plant that’s just sprouting from the rhizome in a 13-cm pot (2nd picture in the gallery). It should be transplanted into a larger pot as soon as possible so the rhizome can grow!

There isn’t much to see above ground yet, but these are large, sturdy, and well-rooted rhizomes.