Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot Included | Secure Packing
The 'Heliconia Angusta Red Christmas' (also known as 'Red Holiday') is a beautiful, compact, tropical perennial.1 It's famous for its festive red and white bracts that often appear during the winter months, giving it its common name.2
Here is a guide to its care Heliconia Angusta Red Christmas (Holiday):
1. Light
Preferred: Bright, indirect light or partial shade.3
Ideal Outdoor Spot: A location that receives 2-3 hours of gentle morning sun and bright shade for the rest of the day, or a spot with all-day filtered sunlight (dappled light).4
Note: While it can tolerate some sun, it prefers shade and will not look its best or may scorch in the hot afternoon sun, especially in very warm climates. If grown indoors, place it near a bright, filtered sunny window.5
2. Water & Humidity
Watering: This plant loves moisture.6 Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy or waterlogged.
Water regularly and deeply, especially during the hot, dry growing season (spring and summer).7
Reduce watering frequency in cooler months, but do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
Humidity: It thrives in high humidity (60-80%), as it is a tropical plant.8
In dry indoor environments, routine misting, a pebble tray with water, or a humidifier is recommended.9
3. Temperature & Climate
Warmth: It prefers warm, humid, tropical to subtropical climates.10
Ideal Temperature: Best growth is between 11$65^\circ\text{F}$ and 12$86^\circ\text{F}$ (13$18^\circ\text{C}$ and 14$30^\circ\text{C}$).15
Frost Sensitive: It is sensitive to frost and cold.16 Protect it when temperatures drop below 17$50^\circ\text{F}$ (18$10^\circ\text{C}$).19
In cooler climates (outside of USDA Zones 10-11), it is best to grow it in a container so it can be moved indoors or to a protected, sheltered area during the winter.20
4. Soil & Fertilizing
Soil: Use a rich, well-draining soil that is high in organic matter.21 Mixing in compost or well-rotted manure is beneficial.22
Fertilizer: Heliconias are considered heavy feeders.23
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the start of the growing season (spring).24
Follow up with a second feeding or a fast-acting, potassium-rich fertilizer in mid-summer to encourage flowering and vibrant color.25
5. Pruning & Maintenance
Pruning: Relatively low-maintenance.26
Remove spent flowers (deadhead) and cut back old flower stalks after they fade to encourage new blooms and growth.27
Trim away any dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves at the base to keep the plant tidy and promote healthy new foliage.28
Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to help conserve soil moisture and improve soil structure.29
By meeting its needs for warmth, consistent moisture, and bright, indirect light, your 'Red Christmas' Heliconia should thrive and provide beautiful, festive color.
