Heliconia caribaea — Columnar upright

Overview

Heliconia caribaea is a columnar upright conservatory greenhouse in the genus Heliconia, part of the Heliconiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Heliconia caribaea grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include patio and container plants and flower borders and beds.

About

Heliconia is a genus of flowering plants in the monotypic family Heliconiaceae. Most of the 194 known species are native to the tropical Americas, but a few are indigenous to certain islands of the western Pacific and Maluku in Indonesia.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Heliconia

Sunlight: Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type: Loam
Soil pH: Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H1a

Plant details

Heliconia caribaea size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Conservatory Greenhouse
Habit: Columnar upright
Foliage: Evergreen
Suggested uses: Patio and container plants, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Heliconia caribaea

Propagation: Seed sown in heat in spring, Division in spring
Pest resistance: Susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, mealybugs, snails
Disease resistance: Phytophthora root rot, Pythium stem rot

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Heliconia caribaea?

Heliconia caribaea prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Heliconia caribaea need?

Heliconia caribaea grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Heliconia caribaea hardy in the UK?

Heliconia caribaea has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.

How do I propagate Heliconia caribaea?

Seed sown in heat in spring, Division in spring.

More in the Heliconia genus

Browse all Heliconia →