Family: Heliconiaceae
Common Name: Lobster Claw, Parrot Beak

There are between 100 and 200 species in this genus of showy plants from tropical America, South Pacific islands and the Moluccas. These plants grow from rhizomes and have large, paddle-shaped or spoon-shaped foliage, mostly similar to that of the banana. Brilliantly coloured bracts enclose the true flowers, which are often pollinated by hummingbirds or bats in their habitats. The flowering stems may be upright or pendulous. Most flower in spring or summer. They can be used as specimen plants or in mixed foliage borders. In frost-prone climates, they are grown in a warm greenhouse or conservatory.

Species

H. bihai varies in height from 1 m to 5 m (3-16 ft). The foliage is dark green and the upright inflorescence is white with green tips, and is surrounded by broad, red bracts with a yellow base. There are several named cultivars of this species.

H. nutans, to 1-2 m (3-6 ft) tall, has a pendulous inflorescence, encased by orange-red bracts. The flowers have yellow sepals.

H. psittacorum, parrot beak, grows up to 2 m (6 ft) high, with spoon-shaped or linear leaves. The floral bracts are orange-red, while the flowers are orange-red with green, banded tips.

Cultivation

Grow in large pots or tubs of soilless potting compost, ideally containing shredded bark. Plants need good light but shade from direct strong sun, and a humid atmosphere. Containers could be stood outdoors for the summer in a very sheltered, partially shaded spot. Propagate by division in spring.

Climate

Frost-free. Zone 10 at least.