Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot Included | Secure Packing
The Heliconia bihai 'Banana Split' is a vibrant, upright, clumping perennial known for its striking red and yellow bracts (the colorful parts that look like flowers). Its care is focused on maintaining the consistently warm, moist, and nutrient-rich conditions of its tropical origin.
Here is a guide to caring for your Heliconia 'Banana Split':
1. Light Requirements
Ideal: Full sun to partial shade. The best placement is often a spot with morning sun and protection from the harsh, intense afternoon sun, which can scorch the large leaves.
Protection: Position in a location that is sheltered from strong winds. Wind can easily shred the banana-like foliage, giving the plant a ragged appearance.
2. Temperature and Climate
Climate: Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates (USDA Zones 10 and warmer). It is considered one of the more cold-tolerant Heliconia species, but is still very frost-sensitive.
Temperature: Prefers warm, hot, and humid conditions. Temperatures below 50∘F (10∘C) can cause damage.
Cooler Regions: Must be grown in a container so it can be moved to a protected, sheltered area or indoors during the winter months.
3. Watering and Humidity
Watering: Heliconias require significant moisture. Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy or waterlogged, especially during the active growing season (spring through autumn).
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, even for a short while.
Reduce watering frequency slightly in the winter/dormant season, but do not let it go completely dry.
Humidity: Requires high humidity. Low humidity can cause the leaf tips and edges to turn brown. Misting or placing the plant near water features can help.
4. Soil and Planting
Soil: Requires rich, well-draining, and fertile soil with a high content of organic matter (compost, manure).
Poor drainage is the primary cause of root rot.
pH: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5 to 7.0).
Planting: Plant the rhizomes horizontally in spring. In garden beds, space the plants about 3 feet (1 meter) apart to allow for its clumping habit.
5. Fertilizing
Schedule: Heliconias are heavy feeders. Fertilize regularly during the growing season (spring to autumn).
Type: Use a balanced, slow-release tropical fertilizer or a liquid feed (e.g., NPK 19-19-19 or similar balanced feed) every 4-8 weeks.
Nutrient Focus: Adequate Nitrogen (N) is important for lush foliage, and Potassium (K) is key for encouraging and supporting abundant flowering.
6. Pruning and Maintenance Heliconia bihai cv Banana Split
Spent Flower Stalks: The plant flowers from a stalk (pseudostem) only once. Once the colorful bracts have faded, cut the entire stem back to the ground to encourage the growth of new shoots from the rhizome, which will produce the next season's flowers.
Foliage: Remove any dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves throughout the year to keep the clump neat and tidy.
Division: To maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding, the dense clumps should be divided every 2-3 years, usually in the spring.
7. Pests and Problems
Heliconias are generally low-maintenance regarding pests.
Fungal Issues: The main risk is root rot from overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure your soil is fast-draining.
Pests: Occasionally check for common tropical pests like spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs, and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap if an infestation is noted.
