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Heliconia Rostrata (Lobster claw, False-bird-of-paradise) is an herbaceous perennial native to Ecuador and Peru. It is related to the Bird of Paradise and the banana. An aggressive botanical, it will spread rapidly, given favorable conditions. Other Heliconias grow in the upright position (Heliconia caribaea), their cup-shaped flowers storing water for birds and insects. This plant, however, has downward-facing flowers, and provides a source of nectar to birds.

Heliconias are known to those who grow them as a host flower to many birds, especially the Hummingbird. Because of its unique characteristics, it is often used as a specimen for tropical gardens.

Along with the Kantuta flower, Heliconia rostrata is the national flower of Bolivia.

[edit] Specifications

• Kingdom: Plantae
• (unranked): Angiosperms
• (unranked): Monocots
• (unranked): Commelinids
• Order: Zingiberales
• Family: Heliconiaceae
• Genus: Heliconia
• Species: Heliconia Rostrata

[edit] Background

This striking tropical can grow to seven feet and more, depending on conditions. When one first encounters this beauty, the experience can be unsettling, since the inverted appearance of these flowers gives them their common name of “Lobster Claw(s)”. They look more like papier mache painted with bright colors, creating a “carnival in Rio” effect. Smooth and waxy to the touch, one can see why the greenhouse populated with rostratas surprises and delights visitors. As cut flowers, they provide a striking centerpiece for a formal dining occasion. The plant grows fast and can be invasive, and when you contemplate it in its full glory, you wonder if, in its own way, it is aware of you as you are aware of it.