Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot Included | Secure Packing
The Heliconia 'Rostrata Gold Peru' is a variety of Heliconia rostrata, commonly known as the Hanging Lobster Claw or False Bird of Paradise. It's a tropical plant, and its care is generally consistent with its species.
Here are the key care requirements for Heliconia Rostrata Gold Peru:
Light
Full Sun to Partial Shade: It thrives in full sun, especially if the sun isn't too intense, as this encourages the best blooming. In very hot climates, partial shade (morning sun and afternoon shade) is recommended to prevent the large leaves from scorching.
Protection: It needs a sheltered spot to protect the large leaves from strong winds, which can tear them.
Water
Consistently Moist Soil: Heliconias are not drought-tolerant and prefer consistently moist, but not soggy, soil.
Water Regularly: During the growing season (warm months), water regularly, often every few days, to keep the soil evenly moist. It may need watering two or three times a week in hot, dry conditions.
Avoid Soggy Soil: Ensure the soil is well-drained, as overwatering and standing water can quickly lead to root rot.
Humidity: Being a tropical plant, it loves high humidity. Mist regularly in dry climates, group plants, or use a pebble tray if growing in a container.
Soil and Fertilizer
Soil: Use a fertile, well-drained, organically rich soil. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is preferred.
Amending Soil: If you have sandy or poor soil, amend it with compost or other organic matter.
Fertilizer: This is a fast-growing, heavy feeder. Fertilize regularly during the growing season (spring through fall) with a high-quality, slow-release, balanced granular fertilizer. You can also supplement with a liquid fertilizer every few weeks for prolific blooms. Reduce or stop feeding in the winter.
Temperature and Climate
Warmth and Humidity: Ideal conditions are warm and humid, similar to a tropical rainforest.
Cold Tolerance: It is not frost-hardy. It grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 10-11, where temperatures rarely drop below 50∘F (10∘C).
Overwintering: If you live in a colder zone, it must be grown in a container and brought indoors to a sheltered, warm location before the first frost.
Maintenance
Pruning: Pruning is minimal. Remove spent flower stalks (inflorescences) from the base of the plant once they have finished blooming, as each stem only flowers once. Also, remove any damaged or yellowing leaves to keep the plant tidy.
Propagation: Heliconias are rhizomatous. You can easily propagate new plants by dividing the rhizomes in the spring.
Container Growing: This species can get quite large (up to 4-6 feet or more), so if growing in a pot, use a large container and divide the clumps every couple of years as they will eventually fill and choke themselves out.
