Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot Included | Secure Packing
The Heliconia regalis 'Barnum and Bailey' is a highly sought-after, rare tropical plant known for its dramatic, pendulous (hanging) inflorescences that are described as fuzzy (villous) and feature a vibrant mix of orange and yellow bracts.
As a member of the Heliconia family, its care requirements follow the general needs of the genus, emphasizing warmth, high moisture, and rich soil.
Here is a detailed guide for caring for Heliconia regalis Barnum and Bailey :
1. Climate and Temperature
Tropical Essential: This plant is native to tropical regions and requires a consistently warm environment.
Ideal Temperature: It thrives in temperatures between $20^\circ\text{C}$ to $35^\circ\text{C}$ ($68^\circ\text{F}$ to $95^\circ\text{F}$).
Cold Intolerance: It is not frost-hardy and should never be subjected to temperatures below $10^\circ\text{C}$ ($50^\circ\text{F}$), and ideally, mature specimens should be kept above $15^\circ\text{C}$ ($59^\circ\text{F}$). Lower temperatures are only tolerated briefly.
Growing Outdoors: Only possible in USDA Hardiness Zones 10-11. In cooler zones, it must be grown in a large container and moved to a greenhouse or indoors for winter.
2. Light and Location
Understory Plant: Heliconias in general are often found as understory plants in the rainforest.
Sunlight: Prefers partial shade to full sun.
Partial Shade/Morning Sun: This is often the best choice, as it mimics its natural habitat and protects the large, banana-like leaves from scorching in the intense afternoon sun.
Full Sun: Can be tolerated if the soil is kept consistently moist and the climate isn't overly hot.
Shelter: Choose a location sheltered from strong winds, as high winds can shred the large leaves.
3. Soil and Potting
Soil Type: Requires rich, well-drained, and loose soil with plenty of organic matter (compost, peat moss, or cured manure).
Drainage: Excellent drainage is critical. Heliconias hate "wet feet," which can cause rhizome rot.
Soil pH: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5 to 7.0). Alkaline soils can lead to iron and/or magnesium deficiencies, causing yellowing foliage.
Container Growing: If potting, use a large, heavy container to accommodate its size and prevent it from becoming top-heavy. Use a high-quality potting mix blended with perlite or coarse sand for extra drainage.
4. Watering and Humidity
Watering: This plant is a heavy drinker and is not drought-tolerant.
Keep Moist: The soil should be kept consistently moist but never soggy.
Frequency: Water regularly, especially during the warm growing season. You may need to water every 2-3 days in hot, dry weather. Reduce watering frequency in winter.
Humidity: High humidity is essential. In dry environments, mist regularly, group plants together, or use a humidity tray.
5. Fertilizer
Heavy Feeder: Heliconias are fast-growing and require regular fertilization to support their large size and prolific flowering.
Growing Season (Spring/Summer): Fertilize monthly with a balanced, slow-release complete fertilizer (e.g., a palm-specific formula rich in Potassium (K)) or a liquid fertilizer.
Nutrient Boosts: They respond well to supplementary feedings of compost, organic manure, or liquid fish and seaweed fertilizer.
Winter: Stop or significantly reduce fertilization during the colder months.
6. Maintenance and Propagation
Pruning:
Remove Spent Bracts: Cut back the entire flower stalk (culm) once the flowering is finished, as each stem only flowers once.
Remove Dead Leaves: Remove old, damaged, or completely yellow/brown leaves to keep the clump tidy. Note: Only remove withered leaves when they are completely brown, as the plant can still draw nutrients from partially damaged leaves.
Propagation: Propagate by dividing the rhizomes. This is also necessary every few years to thin out crowded clumps and encourage new growth.
Relocation: Be aware that some heliconias can suffer from relocation shock. Choose a permanent site carefully, or be prepared for an adjustment period if moving the plant.
7. Flowering
Inflorescence: The 'Barnum and Bailey' is known for its pendulous (hanging) inflorescence, featuring furry, bright orange and yellow bracts.
Bloom Time: Generally flowers during the warm months, often around July, August, and September in the Northern Hemisphere.
