Photo credit: Michael Lemmon
Heliconia bihai
Heliconias are prized for their distinctive tropical color, making them a favorite in most exotic arrangements. The actual flowers are small and found inside "bracts," a specialized leaf that protects an inflorescence. These bracts can resemble lobster claws or in this case a beak, giving it the common name of "Firebird" or "Macaw."
The waxy cups come in shades of red, pink, yellow, and orange, attracting many birds and insects. Besides the brilliant splash of color, they're perfect for holding water and make a natural water fountain.
This specimen, known as the "Yellow Dancer," grows to a height of 6 to 8 feet and has large, green, banana-shaped leaves. They're found in the rain forests of South America and the Caribbean.
Heliconias prefer light shade to full sun and a humid environment. They thrive in pots and can bring a tropical paradise to any environment.