Guide to growing heliconia at home and having beautiful flowers

2023-10-08 20:00:59

The exuberance of its flowers with bright tones, its robustness and the freshness of its spikes make it a plant that we want to have at home or in our workplace. Growing heliconia in a pot is very simple if we take care of some details.

Last update: October 9, 2023

Heliconias are striking and large tropical plants characterized by their showy and colorful spikes of different shapes and colors. They live in warm and humid climates and have great ornamental value. They can even be used to reforest and protect water sources.

This plant is emblematic of the tropical jungle, being known for its beauty and exuberance. It is also commonly called platanillo or toucan’s beak.

Having it at home can be beneficial, as it adds an exotic and attractive touch to any space, creating a good atmosphere in the garden or indoors. In this article we will tell you how to grow it in a pot, so that your home looks beautiful and full of life.

Heliconia characteristics

Native to South America, Central America, the Pacific Islands and some regions of Indonesia, most specimens are found in South America and the Caribbean. There are more than 200 species, so each one can vary in size.

There are those that measure around 70 centimeters to the largest, which reach 10 meters in height. They experience rapid and vigorous growth in warm areas, since it is the climate that favors its development.

Another feature of heliconias is that they have large, alternate leaves, similar to those of banana plants. The stems are thick and rigid, which gives them stability and strength. They have different shapes, such as clusters or pendants, and are composed of brightly colored bracts that surround the flowers.

One of the unique features of these plants is their striking and colorful spikes. Heliconia stands out when you have it planted in a pot, as it provides color and elegance. It can live up to 20 years or more, accompanying you for a good part of your life.

How to grow heliconia in a pot?

Growing heliconia in a pot is an excellent option for home decoration. It requires simple care that can be done by any member of the family, in different seasons or periods of the year. Follow this seven-step guide to help you plant it correctly.

1. Select a good pot

Choose a pot that is large to accommodate the root system when growing heliconia. Make sure it has holes in the bottom to allow for good water drainage.

2. Enriches the soil

Use a soil mixture rich in organic matter during growth. Apply a layer of compost around the plant, making sure it doesn’t touch the stem. You can also add a little sand to improve drainage.

3. Give your plant an ideal position

Place the heliconia in the pot, making sure the roots are covered with soil. Don’t bury the plant too much; Leave the neck of the rhizome, which is the part where the roots and stem join, above the level of the soil.

4. Water regularly

Heliconias prefer moist soils, so you should water it every two days, without falling into excess. It is preferable to use watering close to the stem and not just spray the leaves and flowers.

5. Check light and temperature

Place the pot in a location where it receives indirect sunlight or filtered light.. Avoid direct exposure to intense sun. Heliconias prefer warm temperatures, between 20°C and 30°C.

6. Protect it from the cold

If you live in a cold area, Consider sheltering the plant in a warmer location. You can also cover it with insulating material, making sure that this fabric does not touch the leaves and flowers.

7. Perform pruning and maintenance

Remove wilted leaves and flowers to keep the plant clean and healthy. If required, you can trim old or damaged stems. By eliminating these parts you will improve your health.

Tips for growing heliconia in the garden

The flowers of these tropical plants can also shine in your garden with their beauty and color. Besides, They will be attractive to hummingbirds. In fact, some botanists discovered that certain varieties of heliconia only allow themselves to be pollinated by some hummingbirds, but not all, demonstrating selectivity.

We recommend that you locate a visible space so that you can plant it there and take advantage of its beauty. It is very important that you choose different varieties, according to the climate and conditions of the site where the planting will be done.

Remember to leave adequate space between each of them, so that there is room for growth. It can be between one and two meters.

As they grow, keep the area around them free of weeds. You can also apply a fertilizer for flowering plants that will keep it healthy.

You can have tropical flowers in your home

By growing heliconias you have tropical plants inside your house. They stand out for their showy spikes, variable size, large leaves and rigid stems. Since they have a long life, They become highly appreciated ornamental plants.

By following this care guide you can enjoy it for many years. Of course: be careful with pests. Nematodes, the screwworm and the weevil are the most frequent aggressors. If you let the infestation develop, the plant could die. So if there is a sign of infection, consult a specialist or your trusted nursery.