The Essential Guide To The Heliconia
Botanical Name: Heliconia spp.
Common Name: Heliconia, Parrot Flower, Crab Claw, False Bird of Paradise
General Knowledge: The Heliconia, originating from tropical Americas, is a vibrant flower used predominantly in decorative displays for its striking and colourful appearance. A fun fact about this flower is that it's not just a feast for human eyes; Heliconia also plays a critical role in the ecosystem by providing nectar for hummingbirds, which in turn are their primary pollinators.
Colour Range: This tropical beauty comes in yellow, orange, red, pink, maroon, purple, green, and various bicolour, offering a vibrant spectrum for any floral arrangement.
Australian Seasonal Availability: Heliconias are available year-round due to their tropical nature and Australia’s conducive growing conditions in the Northern Territory and northern Queensland.
Australian Wedding and Event Season Availability: With their year-round availability, Heliconias are a staple for creating a tropical or exotic ambiance at weddings and events, especially popular for summer occasions.
Commercially Grown in Australia: Yes
Imported into Australia: Due to biosecurity reasons, Heliconias are a prohibited import as they are closely related to bananas.
Buying Tips: When purchasing, inspect the blooms for any brown-black marks which can indicate chilling injury. Since they can be easily damaged in transit, careful handling upon delivery is crucial.
Design Tips and Advice: Heliconias work exceptionally well in modern floral designs. They can be used in bouquets, bunches, or as the stunning focal point in tropical-style arrangements.
Flower Maturity: Pick blooms that are mature as the bracts do not open further once cut.
Expected Vase Life: These flowers boast a substantial vase life of 10 days to 2 weeks.
Typical Stem Length: The stems can vary greatly in size from 10 cm to over a meter (100+ cm), accommodating a wide array of design needs.
Typical Bunch Size: Sold in bunches of 5 or individually, depending on the cultivar and size of the flowers.
Floral Preservatives: Generally, floral preservatives have little to no effect on Heliconias.
Ethylene Sensitivity: These flowers are not sensitive to ethylene, making them less prone to premature wilting due to exposure.
Temperature Requirements: Best stored at 12–15 °C. Temperatures lower than this can cause damage.
Avoiding Potential Problems: Care should be taken to avoid bruising. Do not chill as Heliconias are susceptible to cold injury.
Cooling and Cool Rooms: Not applicable for Heliconias; cool temperatures are detrimental.
Hydration and Vase Solutions: Recut stems and immerse in clean water. Misting is recommended over the use of preservatives.
Care of Ethylene Sensitive Products: Not required as Heliconias are not sensitive to ethylene.
Special Care for Tropical Flower Species: Heliconias are tropical flowers and should be handled with care to avoid bruising. They prefer warm environments and should not be refrigerated.