Heliconia lathispatha - Lobster Claw

Oh wow.........its beautiful

Milky:

Thanks! I need to get his one. I have Heliconia schiedeana and Heliconia stricta 'Jamaican Dwarf'.

I used to have Heliconia lathispatha 'Red Christmas' and 'Yelllow Christmas' but they died in the 7 year drought.

I love these! But the only one's I've ever seen growing are in a hot house! Lucky you! :o)))

Petaltracey:

We can grow several species of Heliconia outside in San Diego. They just need a lot of water.

I really must make the effort to get a smaller growing species..............

Meanie:

Did the Heliconia schiedeana seeds grow for you? I know Heliconia seeds are very difficult to germinate (from what I've read). I've only grown Heliconia species from rhizomes.

Almost any species of Heliconia you grow would stay small in a pot. Heliconia schiedeana usually only grows to about 2ft or so in a pot.

I had just one try to germinate, and that gave up the struggle! Been looking into them again lately and had some good tips.

I do have more seeds...however, your best bet is to get rhizomes or small plants. I've never seen a Heliconia grown from seed. Just remember Heliconias are super heavy feeders. This is why my dwarf Jamaican Heliconia (in a pot) has never bloomed.

Pure steer manure I believe that you said for a potting medium..............

Meanie:

Yes, almost pure steer manure. Heliconias are pigs...they need tons of fertilizer.