It’s not a hen, nor a flower. What would Heliconia be then? This is among the most unique and artistic vegetation that nature has ever created.
The colourful, hanging branches that protrude out of the heliconia stalk are literally bracts or, somewhat, a sort of canopy that protects and covers the actual flower that’s hidden inside.
Of tropical origin, Heliconia is a plant native to the Brazilian and Peruvian Amazon, however additionally it is simply present in different areas of South and Central America, the place the recent and humid local weather predominates all year long.
And for those who’re there desirous to know extra about this unbelievable buck, keep right here with us and we’ll inform you all the things.
Heliconia: Most important traits
Heliconia is the identify given to the plant genus of the Heliconiaceae household. At the moment, there are about 100 totally different species of heliconias cataloged all over the world. Of this whole, about 40 species are of Brazilian origin.
Regardless of the immense selection, heliconias have traits in frequent, such because the presence of bracts and elongated leaves of intense inexperienced.
Additionally it is frequent for heliconias to be slim, elegant, and vigorous. This plant, in some species, can attain virtually 12 meters in peak.
Find out how to look after Heliconia
Mild and temperature
Heliconia might be grown in half shade and full solar, however in each instances, the native temperature should at all times be above 25ºC.
So, nothing to place the heliconia in a darkish and chilly nook of the home. She couldn’t stand it.
Though very rustic and resistant, heliconia suffers from the motion of wind and rain. The delicate leaves tear and burn simply, so additionally it is attention-grabbing to maintain the plant protected.
Watering
Heliconia has rhizomes. And what does that imply? Its roots retailer water. So don’t overdo the watering.
The best is to water it solely when it touches the soil and realizes that it’s dry.
Fertilizing
Heliconia shouldn’t be demanding when it comes to fertilization, however it’s nonetheless attention-grabbing to supply the plant a very good high quality natural fertilizer each two or three months.
Together with it, you’ll be able to even reinforce the plant’s vitamin with an NPK 10-10-10 fertilizer.
Harvesting and pruning
Many species of heliconia bloom all yr spherical, particularly whether it is in a spot of fine mild.
The harvesting of the stems might be executed as quickly as they attain the attribute coloration. After reducing it’s endorsed to chop the stem, because it blooms solely as soon as.
It’s not needed to hold out upkeep pruning in heliconia, besides within the case of useless, dry, or diseased leaves.
Widespread pests
Sadly, heliconia is a plant that could be very vulnerable to pests, particularly when it isn’t fertilized correctly and finally ends up affected by a scarcity of vitamins.
The commonest in one of these plant is the assault of fungi on the leaves, however they’ll additionally change into a simple goal for aphids, mealybugs, ants, mites, and caterpillars.
The very best resolution is to offer for the removing of those pests, which in some instances might be handbook or chemical, within the case of aphids, mites, and mealybugs.
Nevertheless, it’s price remembering {that a} wholesome plant, well-nourished and receiving the perfect luminosity might be naturally protected towards the assault of pests.
Try these concepts on find out how to use heliconia in ornament and landscaping:
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