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Description
Heliconia Bihai, also known as Lobster Claw or False Bird of Paradise, is a stunning tropical plant that belongs to the family Heliconiaceae. Native to Central and South America, this plant produces large, colorful bracts that resemble lobster claws or bird of paradise flowers. The flowers themselves are small and inconspicuous, but the bracts are what make this plant truly unique.Heliconia Bihai can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide, making it a wonderful addition to any garden that needs a pop of color. It blooms in the summer and fall, with each bract lasting up to two months. This plant is also a favorite among hummingbirds, who love to feed on its nectar.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Heliconiaceae |
| Genus | Heliconia |
Appearance
Heliconia Bihai has large, banana-like leaves that are green and glossy. The bracts, which are the main attraction, come in a variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, and pink. The bracts are shaped like lobster claws or bird of paradise flowers, with a curved shape and pointed tips. The flowers themselves are small and white, with a sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
Heliconia Bihai requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or more frequently in hot, dry weather.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Soil: Heliconia Bihai prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand works well.
Sunlight: This plant requires full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, it benefits from some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.
Hardiness Zones: Heliconia Bihai is hardy in zones 10-12, but can be grown as an indoor plant in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Heliconia Bihai is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
Aphids: These tiny insects suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and distort. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that feed on the plant sap. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide to prevent its spread.
Habitat
Heliconia Bihai is native to Central and South America, where it grows in tropical rainforests. It thrives in warm, humid climates with consistent rainfall. In the wild, it can grow up to 20 feet tall.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Heliconia Bihai indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow Heliconia Bihai as an indoor plant as long as you provide it with ample sunlight and humidity.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Heliconia Bihai?
A: Fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: Should I prune my Heliconia Bihai?
A: Yes, you can prune your plant to remove dead or damaged leaves. Prune in the spring before new growth appears.
Q: How often should I water my Heliconia Bihai?
A: Water deeply once a week, or more frequently in hot, dry weather.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you might enjoy:
- Heliconia Rostrata
- Heliconia Psittacorum
- Strelitzia Reginae (Bird of Paradise)
- Canna Lily
References
- “Heliconia Bihai.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277120.
- “Heliconia.” Costa Farms, www.costafarms.com/plants/heliconia.
- “Lobster Claw.” HGTV, www.hgtv.com/outdoors/flowers-and-plants/tropical-plants/lobster-claw.
